Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a metal of significant importance in biblical times, is frequently mentioned throughout the Scriptures. Its use in various applications, including tools, weapons, and construction, underscores its value and utility in ancient societies. One of the notable mentions of iron in the context of construction is its use in gates, which served as critical components in the defense and fortification of cities.The first recorded use of iron in the context of a gate is found in the book of Judges. In Judges 16:3, we read about the mighty exploits of Samson, a judge of Israel, who demonstrated his extraordinary strength in an encounter with the Philistines. The passage states: "But Samson lay there only until midnight. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, along with the two gateposts, and pulled them out, bar and all. He lifted them onto his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron" (Judges 16:3). This account highlights the use of iron in the construction of city gates, which were designed to provide security and control access to fortified locations. The gates of Gaza, where this event took place, were likely reinforced with iron to withstand attacks and prevent unauthorized entry. The fact that Samson was able to uproot and carry these gates is a testament to both his divinely endowed strength and the formidable nature of the gates themselves. Iron gates were a common feature in ancient Near Eastern cities, serving as both a practical and symbolic element of a city's defenses. The strength and durability of iron made it an ideal material for such purposes, ensuring that gates could withstand sieges and protect the inhabitants within. The use of iron in gates also reflects the technological advancements of the time, as societies transitioned from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age, adopting new methods and materials for construction and warfare. In the broader biblical narrative, iron is often associated with strength and resilience, qualities that are exemplified in the account of Samson and the gates of Gaza. This account not only illustrates the physical properties of iron but also serves as a reminder of the spiritual strength that God can impart to His chosen servants, enabling them to accomplish feats beyond human capability. Nave's Topical Index Acts 12:10When they were past the first and the second ward, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and immediately the angel departed from him. Nave's Topical Index Library Acts xvi. 13, 14 "In the Volume of the Book it is Written of Me" (Heb. . . The First Theban Empire An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Yet Speaking. The Unjust Steward - Dives and Lazarus - Jewish Agricultural Notes ... Chapter xxii The Last King of Judah Walking with God The Necessity of Increased Faith Resources What does it mean that iron sharpens iron? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the symbolism in Amos, e.g., sledges with iron teeth (Amos 1:3), murdered pregnant women (Amos 1:13), burning bones (Amos 2:1), destroyed roots (Amos 2:9), and hooks (Amos 4:2)? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 2? | GotQuestions.org Iron: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iron of Greater Gravity than Water Iron of Severe Exercise of Power Iron of Small Comparative Value Iron used from the Earliest Age Iron: (Seared With) Insensibility of Conscience Iron: First Recorded Use of Ax Iron: First Recorded Use of Bedstead Iron: First Recorded Use of Breastplate Iron: First Recorded Use of Chariot Iron: First Recorded Use of Fetters Iron: First Recorded Use of File Iron: First Recorded Use of Furnace Iron: First Recorded Use of Gate Iron: First Recorded Use of Harrow Iron: First Recorded Use of Horn Iron: First Recorded Use of Idols Iron: First Recorded Use of Melted Iron: First Recorded Use of Ore of Iron: First Recorded Use of Pans Iron: First Recorded Use of Pen Iron: First Recorded Use of Pillars Iron: First Recorded Use of Rods for Scourging Iron: First Recorded Use of Stones of Iron: First Recorded Use of Threshing Instruments Iron: First Recorded Use of Tools Iron: First Recorded Use of Used in the Temple Iron: First Recorded Use of Vessels Iron: First Recorded Use of Weapons Iron: First Recorded Use of Yokes Iron: from the North Hardest and Best Iron: Great Quantity of, Provided for the Temple Iron: Made Into: Graving Tools Iron: Made Into: Implements for Husbandry Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges Iron: Made Into: Tools for Artificers Iron: Made Into: Weapons of War Iron: Miraculously Made to Swim Iron: Mode of Purifying, Taken in War Iron: Taken in War, often Dedicated to God Iron: The Land of Canaan Abounded With Related Terms |