Topical Bible: Tower of Meah

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Tower of Meah is a lesser-known structure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Nehemiah. It is part of the detailed account of the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem, a significant event in Jewish history that took place after the Babylonian exile. The name "Meah" is often translated to mean "hundred," though the exact significance of this name remains a topic of scholarly discussion.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to the Tower of Meah is found in Nehemiah 3:1: "Then Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests began rebuilding the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and installed its doors, after which they rebuilt the wall to the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and then to the Tower of Hananel."

Historical Context:

The Tower of Meah is situated within the context of Nehemiah's efforts to restore Jerusalem's fortifications. After the return from Babylonian captivity, Nehemiah, serving as the governor of Judah under Persian rule, was instrumental in organizing the reconstruction of the city's walls. This project was crucial for the protection and re-establishment of Jerusalem as a center of Jewish life and worship.

Location and Significance:

The Tower of Meah was located on the northern section of Jerusalem's wall, near the Sheep Gate. This area was significant due to its proximity to the Temple Mount, making it a critical point for defense and religious activities. The mention of the tower alongside the Sheep Gate and the Tower of Hananel suggests its importance in the overall structure and security of the city.

Symbolic Meaning:

In a broader theological context, the rebuilding of the walls, including the Tower of Meah, symbolizes the restoration of God's covenant people. It represents a period of renewal and recommitment to the laws and worship of Yahweh. The dedication of the tower, as noted in Nehemiah 3:1, underscores the spiritual significance of the construction efforts, highlighting the intertwining of physical restoration with spiritual revival.

Archaeological Insights:

While specific archaeological evidence for the Tower of Meah is limited, the general area of Nehemiah's wall has been a subject of interest for archaeologists. Excavations in Jerusalem have uncovered sections of ancient walls that some scholars associate with Nehemiah's time, providing a tangible connection to the biblical narrative.

Theological Implications:

The Tower of Meah, as part of the wall rebuilding project, serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. It reflects the themes of perseverance, leadership, and divine providence. Nehemiah's leadership in the face of opposition and adversity is often cited as an example of godly leadership and reliance on prayer and divine guidance.

In summary, the Tower of Meah, though briefly mentioned, plays a role in the larger narrative of Jerusalem's restoration and the re-establishment of the Jewish community post-exile. Its inclusion in the biblical text highlights the importance of both physical and spiritual fortification in the life of God's people.

Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 3:1
Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even to the tower of Meah they sanctified it, to the tower of Hananeel.
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 12:39
And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even to the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate.
Nave's Topical Index

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

Tower of Meah

TOWER OF MEAH

me'-a.

See HAMMEAH.

Strong's Hebrew

3968. Meah -- a tower on the N. wall of Jer.
... NASB Word Usage hundred (2). Meah. The same as me'ah; Meah, a tower in Jerusalem --
Meah. see HEBREW me'ah. 3967, 3968. Meah. 3969 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/3968.htm - 6k

Library

The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3
... Going forward, on the south part, was the tower Meah: and beyond that, "the tower
of Hananeel": in the Chaldee paraphrast it is, 'The tower Piccus,' Zechariah ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 26 the girdle of.htm