Topical Encyclopedia The term "Golden City" is often associated with the biblical imagery of opulence, divine splendor, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. While the exact phrase "Golden City" does not appear verbatim in the Bible, it is commonly linked to descriptions of the New Jerusalem, as depicted in the Book of Revelation, and to the city of Babylon in the prophetic literature.New Jerusalem The New Jerusalem is described in the Book of Revelation as a magnificent city that descends from heaven, symbolizing the eternal dwelling place of God with His people. Revelation 21:18-21 provides a vivid description of the city's splendor: "The wall was made of jasper, and the city itself of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were adorned with every kind of precious stone... The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. And the main street of the city was pure gold, as clear as glass." This imagery of gold and precious stones conveys the idea of divine perfection and the ultimate realization of God's kingdom. The New Jerusalem represents the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, a place where there is no more death, mourning, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4). The city's golden streets and radiant beauty reflect the glory of God and the purity of His presence. Babylon In contrast, the term "Golden City" is sometimes associated with Babylon, particularly in the context of its judgment and downfall. Isaiah 14:4 refers to Babylon as the "oppressor" and the "golden city" that has ceased: "you will sing this song of contempt against the king of Babylon: 'How the oppressor has ceased, and how his fury has ended! The LORD has broken the staff of the wicked, the scepter of the rulers.'" Babylon, in biblical literature, often symbolizes human pride, idolatry, and opposition to God. Its depiction as a "golden city" highlights its former wealth and splendor, which ultimately lead to its downfall due to its arrogance and rebellion against God. The prophetic literature uses Babylon as a symbol of worldly power that is temporary and subject to divine judgment. Symbolism and Interpretation The concept of a "Golden City" in the Bible serves as a powerful symbol of both divine promise and human hubris. In the New Jerusalem, the golden imagery represents the ultimate hope and redemption for believers, a place where God's presence dwells eternally with His people. Conversely, the association with Babylon serves as a warning against the dangers of pride and the fleeting nature of earthly power. Throughout Scripture, gold is often used to symbolize purity, value, and divine majesty. The imagery of a city made of gold underscores the incomparable worth and eternal nature of God's kingdom, contrasting with the temporal and corruptible nature of human achievements. The "Golden City" thus invites believers to look beyond the present world and to set their hopes on the eternal promises of God. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Golden CityGOLDEN CITY gold'-'-n: The translation "golden city" (Isaiah 14:4) is an attempt to render the received text (madhhebhah), but can hardly be justified. Almost all the ancient versions read (marhebhah), a word which connotes unrest and insolence, fitting the context well. Strong's Hebrew 4062. madhebah -- golden city... madhebah. 4063 . golden city. Transliteration: madhebah Phonetic Spelling: (mad-hay-baw') Short Definition: city. Word Origin see marhebah. golden city ... /hebrew/4062.htm - 5k Library March the Twenty-First in the Golden City Ambassadors for Christ In Our Last Chapter we Sought to Show that in Rev. . . The Recall to Religion in the Hymns of Charles Wesley Building up the Boy's Spiritual Life True Greatness Thy Footsteps are not Known We Arrive Now at a Branch of Our Subject Upon which the Lord's ... The Golden Eagle is Cut to Pieces. Herod's Barbarity when He was ... Letter xii. Leo, Bishop of the City of Rome, to all the Bishops of ... Resources Is it possible for gold dust to come down during a church service? | GotQuestions.orgWhat sort of pagan revelry did the Israelites indulge in (Exodus 32:6)? | GotQuestions.org Is “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” a biblical statement? | GotQuestions.org Golden: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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