Topical Encyclopedia The term "Sheep Market" is mentioned in the context of biblical Jerusalem, specifically in the Gospel of John. The reference to the Sheep Market is found in John 5:2, which states, "Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda, and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades" . This passage highlights the proximity of the Sheep Market to the Sheep Gate and the Pool of Bethesda, a site known for its healing waters.Historical and Cultural Context In ancient Jerusalem, the Sheep Market was likely a bustling area where sheep were bought and sold, particularly for sacrificial purposes. The Sheep Gate, mentioned in Nehemiah 3:1, was one of the gates in the walls of Jerusalem, and it was so named because it was the entry point through which sheep were brought into the city for temple sacrifices. The Sheep Market would have been strategically located near this gate to facilitate the movement of livestock into the city and towards the Temple. The sacrificial system was central to Jewish worship, and sheep were among the most common animals offered in sacrifices. The market would have been a vital part of the religious and economic life of Jerusalem, providing the necessary animals for the daily sacrifices required by the Mosaic Law. Theological Significance The mention of the Sheep Market in the Gospel of John is not merely a geographical detail but carries deeper theological implications. The proximity of the Sheep Market to the Pool of Bethesda, a place associated with healing, can be seen as symbolic. In the Old Testament, sheep were often used as sacrificial animals, pointing to the need for atonement and reconciliation with God. In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29), signifying His role as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity. The setting of John 5, where Jesus heals a man at the Pool of Bethesda, underscores His authority and power to heal both physically and spiritually. The Sheep Market, therefore, serves as a backdrop to the revelation of Jesus as the true source of healing and redemption, surpassing the old sacrificial system. Archaeological Insights Archaeological excavations in Jerusalem have provided insights into the layout and structure of the ancient city, including the location of the Sheep Gate and the Pool of Bethesda. The discovery of the pool with its five porticoes aligns with the description given in the Gospel of John, lending historical credibility to the biblical account. The Sheep Market, while not directly excavated, would have been an integral part of the city's infrastructure, supporting the religious practices of the time. The presence of such a market highlights the practical aspects of maintaining the sacrificial system and the daily life of the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Conclusion The Sheep Market, as referenced in the Bible, is a testament to the intricate connection between the religious, economic, and social aspects of ancient Jerusalem. It serves as a historical and theological point of interest, illustrating the continuity and fulfillment of biblical themes through the person and work of Jesus Christ. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Sheep MarketSHEEP MARKET (John 5:2, the Revised Version (British and American) "sheep gate"): The Greek (he probatike) means simply something that pertains to sheep. ATS Bible Dictionary Sheep MarketJohn 5:2. The original might with at least equal propriety be rendered sheep gate; and a gate so called is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:1 32; 12:39. It was adjacent to the temple, and was so named from the number of sheep introduced through it for the temple service. Dr. Barclay thinks the "sheep market" was an enclosure for sheep and other animals designed for sacrifice, outside the temple area on the east. Greek 4262. probatikos -- of sheep ... sheep market. From probaton; relating to sheep, ie (a gate) through which they were led into Jerusalem -- sheep (market). see GREEK probaton. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4262.htm - 6k Library Sabbath Cure at Bethesda. The Third Miracle in John's Gospel At the Unknown' Feast in Jerusalem, and by the Pool of Bethesda. Bethesda and the Sanhedrin Jesus Attends the First Passover of his Ministry. The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3 'Other Sheep' The Sheep and their Shepherd The Fifth Day in Passion-Week - Make Ready the Passover!' The Cleansing of the Temple. Resources What is the significance of sheep in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the “other sheep” mentioned in John 10:16? | GotQuestions.org What is sheep stealing? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
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