Topical Encyclopedia In ancient biblical times, city walls were not only defensive structures but also integral parts of urban life, often serving as the foundation for houses and other buildings. The construction of houses upon city walls is a notable feature in several biblical narratives, reflecting both the architectural practices and the socio-political dynamics of the period.Jericho: Rahab's House One of the most prominent examples of a house built upon a city wall is found in the account of Rahab in the Book of Joshua. Rahab, a resident of Jericho, is described as living in a house that was part of the city wall. This strategic location played a crucial role in the narrative of the Israelite spies. Joshua 2:15 states, "Then she let them down by a rope through the window, since the house where she lived was built into the wall of the city." Rahab's house provided a means of escape for the spies, illustrating how such dwellings could serve both residential and tactical purposes. Strategic and Defensive Considerations Houses built upon city walls were often occupied by individuals or families of significance, possibly due to the strategic advantages these locations offered. Living on the wall provided a vantage point for observing approaching threats and facilitated communication with those outside the city. The construction of homes on city walls also maximized the use of limited urban space within the fortified city limits. Symbolism and Social Implications The presence of houses on city walls can also be seen as a symbol of the interconnectedness of daily life and military preparedness in ancient cities. The walls were not merely barriers but were integrated into the fabric of the community. This integration is evident in the account of Rahab, where her actions from her wall-based home had significant implications for the fate of Jericho and the Israelites. Other Biblical References While Rahab's account is the most detailed account, other biblical references imply the existence of similar structures. In 2 Corinthians 11:33 , the Apostle Paul recounts his escape from Damascus: "But I was lowered in a basket through a window in the wall and escaped from his hands." This passage suggests that houses or rooms built into city walls were not uncommon and could serve as points of egress in times of danger. Architectural and Archaeological Insights Archaeological findings in ancient Near Eastern cities support the biblical accounts of houses built upon city walls. Excavations have revealed remnants of structures that were integrated into the walls, confirming the practicality and prevalence of this architectural practice. These findings provide a tangible connection to the biblical narratives, offering insights into the daily lives and urban planning of ancient civilizations. In summary, the concept of houses built upon city walls in biblical times reflects a blend of practicality, strategy, and symbolism. These structures served as both homes and defensive outposts, playing significant roles in the narratives and historical contexts of the Bible. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 2:15Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was on the town wall, and she dwelled on the wall. Nave's Topical Index Library Temples Built by Constantine the Great; the City Called by his ... Tiberias. A Description of the Temple. The Secret of Its Greatness Port of Spain 'Over against his House' Jerusalem Concerning John of Gichala. Josephus Uses Stratagems against the ... Six Cities The Siege and Taking of Gamala. Resources Why was it important to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the walls of Jericho falling down? | GotQuestions.org What will be the purpose of the walls around the New Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics of the Cities Walls of Babylon of the Cities Walls of Bashan, Destroyed by the Israelites of the Cities Walls of Beth-Shan of the Cities Walls of Jericho of the Cities Walls of the New Jerusalem of the Cities Walls: Houses Built Upon Walls of Cities were Battered by Besieging Armies Walls of Cities were Broad and Places of Public Resort Walls of Cities were Strongly Manned in War Walls of Cities: Adroitness of Soldiers in Scaling Alluded To Walls of Cities: Custom of Dedicating Walls of Cities: Danger of Approaching Too Near To, in Time of War Walls of Cities: Destruction of, a Punishment and Cause of Grief Walls of Cities: Frequently Laid in Ruins Walls of Cities: had Towers Built on Them Walls of Cities: Houses often Built On Walls of Cities: Houses Sometimes Broken Down to Repair, and Fortify Walls of Cities: Idolatrous Rites Performed On Walls of Cities: Kept by Watchmen Night and Day Walls of Cities: Often Very High Walls of Cities: Persons Let Down From Walls of Cities: Sometimes Burned Walls of Cities: Strongly Fortified Walls of Cities: The Bodies of Enemies Sometimes Fastened On, As a Disgrace Walls of Cities: The Falling of, Sometimes Occasioned Great Destruction Walls of Houses: Could be Easily Dug Through Walls of Houses: had Nails or Pegs Fastened Into Them when Built Walls of Houses: Liable to Leprosy Walls of Houses: Often Infested With Serpents Walls of Houses: The Seat Next, Was the Place of Distinction Walls of Houses: Usually Plastered Walls of Ordinances As a Protection to the Church Walls of the Church As a Protection to the Nation Walls of the Protection of God Walls of the Wealth of the Rich in his own Conceit Walls of Those Who Afford Protection Walls were Probably often Strengthened With Plates of Iron or Brass Walls: (Bowing or Tottering) of the Wicked Under Judgments Walls: (Brazen) of Prophets in Their Testimony Against the Wicked Walls: (Daubed With Untempered Mortar) of the Teaching of False Walls: (Of Partition) Separation of Jews and Gentiles Walls: Designed for Separation Walls: Frequently Made of Stone and Wood Together Walls: Hyssop Frequently Grew On Walls: Miracles Connected With: Falling of the Walls of Jericho Walls: Miracles Connected With: Handwriting on the Wall of Belshazzar's Palace Walls: Small Towns and Villages Were not Surrounded By Related Terms |
    |