Topical Bible: Cord: Symbolical Uses of Signifying an Inheritance

◄ Cord: Symbolical Uses of Signifying an Inheritance ►

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In biblical literature, the term "cord" often carries a rich tapestry of symbolic meanings, one of which is its representation of inheritance. This symbolism is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, where land and property were often measured and divided using cords or lines.

The use of a cord to signify inheritance is prominently illustrated in the allocation of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Psalm 16:6 , David declares, "The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, my inheritance is beautiful to me." Here, the "lines" or "cords" metaphorically represent the boundaries of the land apportioned to him, signifying a divinely ordained inheritance. This imagery underscores the belief that God Himself is the ultimate source and guarantor of the inheritance, which is both a physical and spiritual blessing.

In the book of Joshua, the division of the land among the tribes is described in detail, with the use of cords or measuring lines being implicit in the process. Joshua 18:10 states, "Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh in the presence of the LORD, and there he distributed the land to the Israelites according to their divisions." The casting of lots and the subsequent distribution of land were acts that involved the use of cords to delineate boundaries, further emphasizing the cord as a symbol of divine inheritance.

The prophetic literature also employs the imagery of cords in the context of inheritance and divine promise. In Zechariah 2:1-2 , the prophet sees a man with a measuring line, a vision that signifies the restoration and expansion of Jerusalem. The measuring line, akin to a cord, symbolizes God's promise to restore His people and their inheritance, reinforcing the theme of divine provision and protection.

Moreover, the cord as a symbol of inheritance extends beyond the physical realm to encompass spiritual inheritance. In the New Testament, the concept of inheritance is expanded to include the spiritual blessings bestowed upon believers through Christ. While the term "cord" is not explicitly used, the underlying principle of a divinely apportioned inheritance remains. Ephesians 1:11 states, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." Here, the inheritance is not measured by physical cords but by the eternal promises of God in Christ.

Thus, throughout the biblical narrative, the cord serves as a powerful symbol of inheritance, reflecting both the tangible and intangible blessings granted by God to His people. Whether in the context of land, divine promise, or spiritual blessing, the cord signifies the assurance of God's provision and the fulfillment of His covenantal promises.

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Joshua 17:14
And the children of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying, Why have you given me but one lot and one portion to inherit, seeing I am a great people, for as much as the LORD has blessed me till now?
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