Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "bars" often referred to the strong, fortified gates of a city or castle, symbolizing security and protection. The imagery of bars is used throughout Scripture to convey strength, defense, and sometimes imprisonment or restraint. In the context of a castle, bars would be integral to the fortifications, ensuring the safety of those within from external threats.Scriptural References: 1. Proverbs 18:19 : "An offended brother is harder to win than a fortified city, and disputes are like the bars of a castle." This verse uses the metaphor of a castle's bars to illustrate the difficulty of resolving conflicts with an offended brother. Just as bars secure a castle, so too can emotional barriers become formidable obstacles in relationships. 2. Nahum 3:13 : "Look at your troops—they are like your women! The gates of your land are wide open to your enemies; fire consumes their bars." Here, the prophet Nahum speaks of the impending judgment on Nineveh, highlighting the vulnerability of the city despite its fortifications. The bars, which should have been a source of strength, are rendered ineffective, symbolizing the complete overthrow of the city's defenses. 3. Psalm 147:13 : "For He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your children within you." This verse speaks of God's provision and protection over Jerusalem. The strengthening of the bars signifies divine security and blessing, ensuring the safety and prosperity of the inhabitants. Symbolism and Interpretation: In biblical literature, bars often symbolize the strength and security provided by God to His people. They represent the divine protection that surrounds the faithful, akin to the physical security offered by the bars of a castle. Conversely, when God’s protection is removed, as seen in Nahum, the bars become ineffective, illustrating the vulnerability of relying solely on human strength. The imagery of bars also serves as a metaphor for emotional and spiritual barriers. Proverbs 18:19 uses this symbolism to describe the difficulty of reconciling with an offended brother, suggesting that such barriers can be as impenetrable as the bars of a fortified city. Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern architecture, city gates were often reinforced with bars made of wood or metal, designed to withstand sieges and attacks. These bars were crucial components of a city's defense system, reflecting the importance of security in a time when cities were frequently under threat from invading forces. Theological Implications: The concept of bars in a biblical context underscores the theme of divine protection and the futility of human efforts without God's intervention. It serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual fortification through faith and obedience to God. The imagery also calls believers to consider the barriers they may erect in their own lives, whether in relationships or in their spiritual walk, and to seek reconciliation and strength through God's grace. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 18:19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Nave's Topical Index Library The King's Courts Salvation of the Lord The Tournament at Constantinople. The Peace of God The Festival of Games, in Honor of Augustus, were About to Begin ... The Birth of Saint George. The High Woods The Revolt of Babylon. I Know that My Redeemer Liveth The Joy of the Lord Resources What was the Diet of Worms? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Society of Jesus? Who are the Jesuits, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org How can demonic strongholds be overcome? | GotQuestions.org Castle: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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