Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, fences and walls were significant structures, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. They were used to protect, delineate, and separate spaces, often reflecting deeper spiritual truths.Protection and Security Fences and walls in the Bible often symbolize protection and security. In ancient Israel, cities were typically surrounded by walls to defend against enemies. Psalm 62:6-7 reflects this idea of God as a protective barrier: "He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God." Separation and Holiness Fences also represent separation, particularly in the context of holiness. In the construction of the Tabernacle, a fence was erected around the courtyard to separate the sacred space from the common (Exodus 27:9-19). This separation underscores the holiness of God and the need for purity when approaching Him. Boundaries and Ownership Fences mark boundaries and signify ownership. Proverbs 22:28 advises, "Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors." This verse highlights the importance of respecting established boundaries, which were often marked by fences or stones, to maintain order and justice in society. Divine Protection The imagery of God as a protective fence is prevalent in Scripture. Zechariah 2:5 states, "For I will be a wall of fire around it, declares the LORD, and I will be the glory within it." Here, God promises to be a protective barrier for His people, emphasizing His role as a divine protector. Moral and Spiritual Boundaries Fences can also symbolize moral and spiritual boundaries. In Proverbs 25:28 , it is written, "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control." This metaphor illustrates the vulnerability that comes from a lack of discipline, likening it to a city without protective walls. Restoration and Rebuilding The rebuilding of walls and fences is a theme of restoration in the Bible. Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 2:17-18) symbolize the restoration of the community and the re-establishment of God's covenant with His people. This act of rebuilding is a physical manifestation of spiritual renewal and commitment. Divine Judgment Conversely, the removal or destruction of fences and walls can signify divine judgment. In Isaiah 5:5 , God declares, "Now I will tell you what I am about to do to My vineyard: I will remove its hedge, and it will be consumed; I will break down its wall, and it will be trampled." This passage uses the imagery of a vineyard's protective fence being removed as a metaphor for God's judgment on Israel due to their unfaithfulness. In summary, fences in the Bible serve as powerful symbols of protection, separation, and divine presence, reflecting both physical and spiritual realities. They underscore the importance of boundaries, both in the physical world and in the spiritual lives of believers. Nave's Topical Index Songs 4:12A garden enclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed. Nave's Topical Index Library The Broken Fence Rome and Ephesus Sunday Before Lent The Middle Colonies: the Jerseys, Delaware, and Pennsylvania --The ... Introduction. This HomilyWas Delivered in the Old Church of Antioch After the War. Footnotes Life of Bunyan The Second Theological Oration. Resources Did God create sin? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a hedge of protection? | GotQuestions.org How is Jesus the “True Shepherd” in John 10:1-5? | GotQuestions.org Fence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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