Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "parlour" refers to a room or area within a house or building used for receiving guests, conducting private conversations, or partaking in meals. The concept of a parlour is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, reflecting its role in social and religious life.Old Testament References The term "parlour" is found in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of hospitality and religious practices. In Judges 3:20, the account of Ehud and King Eglon of Moab provides an example: "Ehud then approached him while he was sitting alone in the cool upper room and said, 'I have a message from God for you.' As the king rose from his seat..." . Here, the "cool upper room" can be understood as a parlour, a private space where the king could receive messages and conduct affairs away from the public eye. In 1 Samuel 9:22, Samuel brings Saul and his servant into a parlour for a meal: "Then Samuel took Saul and his servant, brought them into the hall, and gave them a place at the head of those who had been invited—about thirty in all" . This setting indicates a place of honor and hospitality, where guests are received and entertained. Cultural and Religious Significance The parlour served as a significant space in ancient Near Eastern culture, often associated with hospitality, a highly valued virtue in biblical times. Providing a parlour for guests was a way to show respect and honor, reflecting the host's status and generosity. The use of a parlour for private conversations or religious messages, as seen in the account of Ehud, underscores its role as a place of confidentiality and importance. In religious contexts, the parlour could also be a space for spiritual encounters or divine messages, as demonstrated in the interactions between prophets and leaders. The privacy and seclusion of a parlour made it an ideal setting for such significant events. New Testament Context While the specific term "parlour" is not commonly used in the New Testament, the concept of a private room or space for gathering and hospitality continues. For example, in the Last Supper narrative, Jesus and His disciples gather in an upper room, which serves a similar purpose to a parlour. This setting provides a private and intimate space for Jesus to share His final meal with His disciples and impart crucial teachings. Conclusion The parlour in biblical times was more than just a physical space; it was a setting for hospitality, honor, and significant interactions. Whether used for receiving guests, conducting private conversations, or engaging in religious practices, the parlour played a vital role in the social and spiritual life of the biblical world. Easton's Bible Dictionary (from the Fr. parler, "to speak") denotes an "audience chamber," but that is not the import of the Hebrew word so rendered. It corresponds to what the Turks call a kiosk, as in Judges 3:20 (the "summer parlour"), or as in the margin of the Revised Version ("the upper chamber of cooling"), a small room built on the roof of the house, with open windows to catch the breeze, and having a door communicating with the outside by which persons seeking an audience may be admitted. While Eglon was resting in such a parlour, Ehud, under pretence of having a message from God to him, was admitted into his presence, and murderously plunged his dagger into his body (21, 22).The "inner parlours" in 1 Chronicles 28:11 were the small rooms or chambers which Solomon built all round two sides and one end of the temple (1 Kings 6:5), "side chambers;" or they may have been, as some think, the porch and the holy place. In 1 Samuel 9:22 the Revised Version reads "guest chamber," a chamber at the high place specially used for sacrificial feasts. Strong's Hebrew 3957. lishkah -- room, chamber, hall, cell... chamber, parlor. From an unused root of uncertain meaning; a room in a building (whether for storage, eating, or lodging) -- chamber, parlour. Compare nishkah. ... /hebrew/3957.htm - 6k 5944. aliyyah -- a roof chamber 2315. cheder -- a chamber, room Library Moravians and Methodists, 1735-1742. Law and Grace The Waterpots at Cana "Shine Inside" Annals of the Saint's Life. A Sermon on a Text not Found in the Bible. The Sower. Packing Most in Least. The Old Judge and the Young King Go Back? Never! Thesaurus Parlour... It corresponds to what the Turks call a kiosk, as in Judges 3:20 (the "summer parlour"), or as in the margin of the Revised Version ("the upper chamber of ... /p/parlour.htm - 7k Parlors (1 Occurrence) Parmashta (1 Occurrence) Baruch (24 Occurrences) Summer-house (4 Occurrences) Summerhouse Inn (7 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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