Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, fences and hedges were significant both in a literal and metaphorical sense. They served as protective barriers for vineyards, fields, and properties, and symbolized divine protection and separation from sin or danger.Literal Use: 1. Protection and Boundary: In ancient agrarian societies, hedges were commonly used to protect vineyards and fields from animals and intruders. Isaiah 5:5 illustrates this, where God speaks of removing the hedge of His vineyard, allowing it to be trampled: "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." 2. Symbol of Security: A well-maintained hedge was a sign of security and care. In Job 1:10, Satan acknowledges the protective hedge God placed around Job: "Have You not placed a hedge around him and his household and everything he owns? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land." Metaphorical Use: 1. Divine Protection: The concept of a hedge is often used metaphorically to describe God's protection over His people. Psalm 80:12-13 laments the removal of such divine protection: "Why have You broken down its walls, so that all who pass by pick its fruit? The boar from the forest ravages it, and the creatures of the field feed upon it." 2. Separation from Sin: Hedges also symbolize the separation from sin and the world. In Ezekiel 13:5, the prophets are criticized for failing to "go up into the breaches or build a wall for the house of Israel to stand in battle on the day of the LORD." Here, the hedge represents a spiritual barrier that should have been maintained to protect the people from spiritual danger. 3. Discipline and Correction: In Hosea 2:6, God uses the imagery of a hedge to describe His corrective measures: "Therefore, behold, I will hedge up her way with thorns; I will enclose her with a wall, so that she cannot find her paths." This indicates God's intention to guide His people back to righteousness by obstructing their wayward paths. Cultural and Historical Context: In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, hedges were often made of stone or thorny bushes, serving as practical and effective barriers. They were essential for the protection of agricultural investments and were a common sight in the rural landscapes of ancient Israel. Theological Implications: Theologically, the imagery of a hedge underscores God's sovereignty and care. It reflects His role as a protector and provider, as well as His authority to discipline and guide His people. The removal of a hedge, as seen in various biblical passages, often signifies judgment or the withdrawal of divine favor due to disobedience or sin. In summary, the concept of a fence or hedge in the Bible is rich with meaning, encompassing themes of protection, separation, and divine intervention. It serves as a powerful symbol of God's relationship with His people, illustrating both His nurturing care and His righteous judgment. Nave's Topical Index Ecclesiastes 10:8He that digs a pit shall fall into it; and whoever breaks an hedge, a serpent shall bite him. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 5:5 Nahum 3:17 Matthew 21:33 Proverbs 15:19 Hosea 2:6 Greek 5418. phragmos -- a fencing in, a fence ... in, a fence. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: phragmos Phonetic Spelling: (frag-mos') Short Definition: a hedge, fence, partition Definition: a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5418.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 1447. gader -- a wall... fence, hedge, wall. From gadar; a circumvallation; by implication, an inclosure -- fence, hedge, wall. see HEBREW gadar. 1446, 1447. gader. 1448 . ... /hebrew/1447.htm - 6k 7753. suk -- to hedge or fence up or about 5480b. suk -- to hedge or fence about, shut in 5473. sug -- to fence about 1443. gadar -- to wall up or off, to build a wall 5526. cakak -- to overshadow, screen, cover Library The Broken Fence A Provision Ground Reference to the History of Christ. Fences and Serpents The Worst Things Work for Good to the Godly La Brea Christ Teaching by Miracles The Wicked Husbandmen. Dishonest Tenants Philippians ii. 8-May Resources What is the difference between envy and jealousy, biblically speaking? | GotQuestions.orgCan a person believe in some sense but not be saved? | GotQuestions.org Why is eating dairy products and meat in the same meal considered not kosher? | GotQuestions.org Fence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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