In biblical architecture and construction, sidewalls play a significant role in the structural integrity and design of buildings, including homes, temples, and city fortifications. The term "sidewalls" refers to the vertical structures that form the sides of a building, providing support and protection. In the context of the Bible, sidewalls are often mentioned in relation to the construction of significant edifices, such as the Tabernacle, Solomon's Temple, and the walls of Jerusalem.

Tabernacle and Temple Construction

The construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the book of Exodus, involved detailed instructions for the sidewalls. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. The sidewalls were made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, and supported by silver bases (Exodus 26:15-25). These walls provided the necessary structure to support the curtains and coverings that formed the Tabernacle's outer layer.

Solomon's Temple, a more permanent structure, also featured significant sidewalls. The Temple's construction is detailed in 1 Kings 6, where the sidewalls were made of stone and cedar wood, overlaid with gold. The sidewalls of the Temple were not only functional but also richly adorned, reflecting the glory and majesty of God.

City Fortifications

Sidewalls are also mentioned in the context of city fortifications. The walls of Jerusalem, for example, were crucial for the city's defense. Nehemiah 3 provides a detailed account of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls after the Babylonian exile. The sidewalls of the city were essential for protection against invaders and symbolized the strength and security of the city.

Symbolic Significance

In a symbolic sense, sidewalls can represent protection, security, and the boundaries set by God for His people. The walls of Jerusalem, for instance, were not only physical barriers but also a symbol of God's protection and the restoration of His people. In Isaiah 60:18, the prophet speaks of walls as a metaphor for salvation: "No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise."

Moral and Spiritual Lessons

The construction and maintenance of sidewalls in biblical times can also be seen as a metaphor for the moral and spiritual boundaries that God establishes for His people. Just as physical walls provide protection and structure, spiritual and moral boundaries help maintain the integrity and holiness of God's people. Proverbs 25:28 states, "Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." This verse highlights the importance of maintaining personal discipline and boundaries to prevent spiritual and moral decay.

In summary, sidewalls in the Bible are not only architectural elements but also carry deeper symbolic meanings related to protection, security, and the spiritual boundaries set by God. They serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining both physical and spiritual integrity in the life of a believer.Sidewalls (4 Occurrences)

Ezekiel 40:48
And he bringeth me in unto the porch of the house, and he measureth the post of the porch, five cubits on this side, and five cubits on that side, and the breadth of the gate, three cubits on this side, and three cubits on that side;
(See RSV)

Ezekiel 41:2
And the breadth of the opening 'is' ten cubits; and the sides of the opening 'are' five cubits on this side, and five cubits on that side; and he measureth its length forty cubits, and the breadth twenty cubits.
(See RSV)

Ezekiel 41:3
And he went inside and took the measure of the uprights of the door-opening, two cubits: and the door-opening, six cubits; and the side-walls of the door-opening were seven cubits on one side and seven cubits on the other.
(See RSV)

Ezekiel 41:26
And narrow windows and palm-trees 'are' on this side, and on that side, at the sides of the porch, and the side-chambers of the house, and the thick places.
(See RSV NIV)

Sidewalls (4 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Sidewalls (4 Occurrences). Ezekiel 40:48 And he
bringeth me in unto the porch of the house, and he measureth ...
/s/sidewalls.htm - 7k

Side-structure (3 Occurrences)
Side-structure. Sides, Side-structure. Sidewalls . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(See JPS). Sides, Side-structure. Sidewalls . Reference Bible.
/s/side-structure.htm - 7k

Side-walls (2 Occurrences)
Side-walls. Sidewalls, Side-walls. Side-ward . Multi-Version Concordance
Side-walls (2 Occurrences). ... (BBE). Sidewalls, Side-walls. Side-ward . Reference ...
/s/side-walls.htm - 7k

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