In the biblical context, doors and thresholds hold significant symbolic and practical importance, often representing transition, protection, and divine presence. The construction and description of doors and thresholds in the Bible provide insight into the architectural practices of ancient times and their spiritual symbolism.

Old Testament References

1. Tabernacle and Temple Doors: The doors of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem were of particular importance. In Exodus 26:36-37, the entrance to the Tabernacle is described: "You are to make a curtain for the entrance to the tent, woven of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, the work of an embroiderer. Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain, overlay them with gold hooks, and cast five bronze bases for them." This description highlights the use of precious materials, symbolizing the sacredness of the space.

Solomon's Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6:31-35, had doors made of olive wood, carved with cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, and overlaid with gold. These doors served not only as physical barriers but also as artistic expressions of divine beauty and protection.

2. Thresholds in Prophetic Literature: The thresholds of the Temple are mentioned in prophetic visions, emphasizing their spiritual significance. In Ezekiel 10:18-19, the glory of the LORD departs from the threshold of the Temple, signifying a moment of judgment and transition: "Then the glory of the LORD moved away from the threshold of the temple and stood above the cherubim."

3. Passover and Protection: The threshold also plays a crucial role in the Passover narrative. In Exodus 12:7, the Israelites are instructed to apply the blood of the Passover lamb to the doorposts and lintel of their houses: "They are to take some of the blood and put it on the two side posts and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs." This act of marking the threshold with blood served as a sign of protection from the angel of death.

New Testament References

1. Jesus as the Door: In the New Testament, Jesus uses the metaphor of a door to describe His role as the gateway to salvation. In John 10:9, He states, "I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture." Here, the door symbolizes access to spiritual safety and sustenance.

2. Thresholds in Early Church Practices: The early Christian community often met in homes, where the threshold marked the boundary between the sacred gathering and the outside world. While specific architectural details are sparse, the threshold's role as a point of entry into fellowship and worship is implicit in the communal life of the early church.

Symbolic Interpretations

Throughout Scripture, doors and thresholds symbolize various spiritual truths. They represent opportunities for entering into covenant relationships with God, as seen in the Passover and the teachings of Jesus. They also signify moments of divine encounter and revelation, as in the visions of the prophets. The physical descriptions of doors and thresholds in the Bible often reflect deeper theological meanings, emphasizing themes of holiness, protection, and divine presence.