Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of "hours" often carries symbolic significance beyond its literal meaning as a unit of time. The use of hours in Scripture can denote specific moments of divine intervention, judgment, or fulfillment of prophecy. Understanding these symbolic uses provides deeper insight into the biblical narrative and God's interaction with humanity.Old Testament Context The Old Testament does not frequently mention hours as a specific measure of time, as the Hebrew culture primarily used watches or parts of the day. However, the division of the day into hours became more prominent during the intertestamental period, influenced by Greek and Roman practices. New Testament Symbolism In the New Testament, the division of the day into twelve hours is more explicitly mentioned, reflecting the Roman influence on Jewish society. Jesus Himself refers to the twelve hours of the day in John 11:9 : "Jesus answered, 'Are there not twelve hours of daylight? If anyone walks in the daytime, he will not stumble, because he sees by the light of this world.'" Here, the hours symbolize the period of opportunity and divine guidance, contrasting with the spiritual darkness of night. The Sixth and Ninth Hours The Gospels highlight the sixth and ninth hours in the context of Jesus' crucifixion. Mark 15:33 states, "At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour." This period of darkness symbolizes the weight of sin and the judgment being borne by Christ on the cross. The ninth hour, when Jesus cried out and breathed His last (Mark 15:34-37), signifies the moment of atonement and the fulfillment of His redemptive work. The Third Hour The third hour is also significant in the New Testament. In Acts 2:15 , Peter addresses the crowd on the day of Pentecost, saying, "These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It is only the third hour of the day!" This hour marks the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, symbolizing the birth of the Church and the beginning of a new era in God's redemptive plan. The Eleventh Hour The parable of the workers in the vineyard, found in Matthew 20:1-16, introduces the concept of the eleventh hour. In this parable, laborers hired at the eleventh hour receive the same wage as those who worked all day. This symbolizes God's grace and the inclusivity of His kingdom, where the last can be first, and all are rewarded not based on merit but on the generosity of the Master. Prophetic and Eschatological Significance In prophetic and eschatological contexts, hours can symbolize periods of trial or divine intervention. Revelation 3:10 speaks of "the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world," indicating a specific time of testing and judgment. Similarly, Revelation 14:7 declares, "Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come." These references underscore the urgency and imminence of God's final acts in history. Conclusion The symbolic use of hours in the Bible serves to highlight key moments in God's redemptive history, emphasizing themes of judgment, grace, and divine intervention. By understanding these symbolic meanings, believers can gain a deeper appreciation for the unfolding of God's plan throughout Scripture. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 8:1And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 9:15 Library The Liturgical Standards of the Roman Church. Footnotes The King's Highway The Fifth Miracle in John's Gospel Entire Sanctification in Prophecy. The Healing of the Man Born Blind. The Trial by Fire Meditation ii. The Supper-Room. He Refers to the Tears, and the Memorable Dream Concerning Her Son ... In Jericho and at Bethany - Jericho - a Guest with Zacch??us - the ... Resources What happened during Jesus' last hours before His death? | GotQuestions.orgHow long was Jesus on the cross? | GotQuestions.org What is a morning prayer? What is an evening prayer? | GotQuestions.org Hours: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |