Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, a citadel was a fortified structure or stronghold, often situated on elevated ground, providing a place of defense and refuge during times of war or siege. The concept of a citadel is closely associated with the idea of protection and security, both physically and spiritually.Old Testament References The term "citadel" is not frequently used in the Old Testament, but the concept is evident in various passages. One of the most notable references is found in the Book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah, a Jewish leader during the Persian period, was instrumental in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. The citadel in Jerusalem, known as the "Tower of Hananel," is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:1: "Then Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests set to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set its doors in place, building as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and as far as the Tower of Hananel." The citadel served as a critical point of defense for the city, symbolizing strength and resilience. It was strategically important, providing a vantage point over the surrounding area and serving as a last line of defense against invaders. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not explicitly mention citadels, the concept of a stronghold or fortress is used metaphorically to describe spiritual truths. For instance, in 2 Corinthians 10:4, the Apostle Paul writes, "The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds." Here, the idea of a citadel is used to illustrate the spiritual battles faced by believers and the power of God to overcome spiritual fortresses of sin and deception. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance In a broader spiritual context, the citadel represents God's protection and the believer's refuge in times of trouble. The Psalms frequently use imagery of God as a fortress or stronghold. Psalm 18:2 declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." This imagery underscores the belief that God provides safety and security for His people, much like a citadel offers physical protection. The citadel, therefore, becomes a powerful symbol of divine strength and the assurance of God's presence in the lives of believers. Historical and Archaeological Insights Archaeological excavations in the ancient Near East have uncovered numerous citadels, providing insight into their construction and strategic importance. These structures were typically built with thick walls and towers, often incorporating natural features such as hills or cliffs to enhance their defensibility. The citadel of Jerusalem, for example, has been a focal point of numerous archaeological studies, revealing layers of history that testify to its significance throughout the ages. In summary, the concept of a citadel in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol of protection, strength, and divine refuge, resonating with both historical realities and spiritual truths. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A fortress in or near a fortified city, commanding the city and fortifications, and intended as a final point of defense.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CITADELsit'-a-del (1 Maccabees 1:33; 3:45). Strong's Hebrew 759. armon -- a citadel... 758, 759. armon. 760 . a citadel. Transliteration: armon Phonetic Spelling: (ar-mone') Short Definition: citadels. Word Origin of ... /hebrew/759.htm - 6k 4407. Millo -- a place near Shechem, also a citadel in Jer. 1037. Beth Millo -- "house of earthwork," a place near Shechem ... 1002. birah -- a castle, palace 6877. tseriach -- perhaps excavation, underground chamber 7084. Qeilah -- a city in Judah Library Concerning Macherus, and How Lucilius Bassus Took that Citadel ... Now King Agrippa Sent an Army to Make Themselves Masters of the ... At that Time Judah Besieged the Syrians who were Posted in the ... Concerning Masada and those Sicarii who Kept It; and How Silva ... How David Laid Siege to Jerusalem; and when He had Taken the City ... Concerning the Death of Antiochus Epiphane. How Antiochus Eupator ... How Alexander [Bala] in his War with Demetrius, Granted Jonathan ... But Gamala Persevered in Its Allegiance to the Romans... His Military Life --He is Wounded at the Siege of Pampeluna --His ... How Jonathan Took the Government after his Brother Judas; And Thesaurus Citadel (20 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. CITADEL. sit'-a-del (1 Maccabees 1:33; 3:45). See FORTIFICATION. Multi-Version Concordance Citadel (20 Occurrences). ... /c/citadel.htm - 13k Susa (20 Occurrences) Capital (29 Occurrences) Zion (169 Occurrences) Rabbah (14 Occurrences) Shushan (19 Occurrences) Edict (22 Occurrences) Ulai (2 Occurrences) Impelled (7 Occurrences) Millo (9 Occurrences) Resources Who was Mordecai in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Zion? What is Mount Zion? What is the biblical meaning of Zion? | GotQuestions.org Who was Vashti in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Citadel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Citadel (20 Occurrences)2 Samuel 12:26 1 Kings 16:18 2 Kings 15:25 Ezra 6:2 Nehemiah 1:1 Nehemiah 2:8 Nehemiah 7:2 Esther 1:2 Esther 1:5 Esther 2:3 Esther 2:5 Esther 2:8 Esther 3:15 Esther 8:14 Esther 9:6 Esther 9:11 Esther 9:12 Proverbs 18:19 Isaiah 32:14 Daniel 8:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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