Miphkad is a term found in the context of ancient Jerusalem, specifically mentioned in the book of Nehemiah. The word "Miphkad" is often translated as "inspection" or "muster," and it is associated with one of the gates of Jerusalem during the time of Nehemiah's rebuilding of the city walls. This entry explores the historical and biblical significance of Miphkad within the context of Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Miphkad is found in Nehemiah 3:31, which states: "Next to him, Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, made repairs as far as the house of the temple servants and the merchants, opposite the Inspection Gate, and as far as the room above the corner."

Historical Context:

The book of Nehemiah details the efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah, a Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, was granted permission to return to Jerusalem and oversee the reconstruction. The city had been left in ruins, and the rebuilding of its walls was crucial for the protection and re-establishment of the Jewish community.

The mention of the "Inspection Gate" or "Miphkad Gate" in Nehemiah 3:31 suggests a location where people or troops were mustered or inspected. This gate was part of the comprehensive effort to restore Jerusalem's fortifications, which included various gates and sections of the wall, each assigned to different groups or individuals for repair.

Significance in Jerusalem:

The Miphkad Gate held strategic and ceremonial importance. It is believed to have been located on the eastern side of the city, possibly near the Temple Mount. The gate's name implies a place of gathering or assembly, which aligns with its potential use for military inspections or public gatherings. In the context of Nehemiah's time, the gate would have been a symbol of restored order and governance, reflecting the renewed commitment to the covenant community and the re-establishment of Jerusalem as a center of Jewish life and worship.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, including the Miphkad Gate, represents God's faithfulness to His people. Despite the destruction and exile, God provided a way for the Jewish people to return and rebuild their city. The restoration of the walls and gates signifies not only physical security but also spiritual renewal and the re-establishment of Jerusalem as the focal point of God's covenant with Israel.

The Miphkad Gate, as part of this larger narrative, underscores themes of restoration, divine providence, and communal responsibility. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the life of faith, as well as the need for communal cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes.

Conclusion:

While the Miphkad Gate is only briefly mentioned in the biblical text, its inclusion in the account of Nehemiah's rebuilding efforts highlights its role in the restoration of Jerusalem. As a place of inspection and assembly, it reflects the broader themes of renewal and divine faithfulness that permeate the narrative of the return from exile and the rebuilding of the holy city.Nehemiah 3:31
After him repaired Malchiah the goldsmith's son to the place of the Nethinims, and of the merchants, over against the gate Miphkad, and to the going up of the corner.
Nave's Topical Index

4663. Miphqad -- "appointed place," a gate in Jer.
... NASB Word Usage inspection (1). Miphkad. The same as miphqad; assignment; Miphkad,
the name of a gate in Jerusalem -- Miphkad. see HEBREW miphqad. 4662, 4663 ...
/hebrew/4663.htm - 6k

The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3
... for they seem to have perished, if so be they perished near Jerusalem, in the ... at
that place touching on the valley of Kedron.4. The Gate Miphkad: the Vulgar ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 26 the girdle of.htm

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