The term "summer-parlor" appears in the context of the biblical narrative found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 3:20. This term refers to a specific type of room or chamber that was used during the warmer months, likely designed to provide a cooler environment. The summer-parlor is mentioned in the account of Ehud, the judge of Israel, and his encounter with Eglon, the king of Moab.

Biblical Context:

In Judges 3:20, the Berean Standard Bible states: "Then Ehud 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..." The "cool upper room" is understood to be the summer-parlor, a place where King Eglon could find respite from the heat.

Historical and Cultural Background:

The summer-parlor was likely an architectural feature in the ancient Near East, designed to take advantage of natural ventilation and cooler temperatures at higher elevations within a building. Such rooms were often located on the upper floors, where breezes could be more easily accessed. This design reflects the practical needs of the time, as well as the ingenuity in adapting living spaces to the climate.

Significance in the Narrative:

The mention of the summer-parlor in the account of Ehud and Eglon is significant for several reasons. First, it sets the stage for the dramatic and clandestine nature of Ehud's mission. The privacy of the summer-parlor allowed Ehud to approach King Eglon under the pretense of delivering a divine message, ultimately leading to Eglon's assassination. This act of deliverance was pivotal in freeing the Israelites from Moabite oppression.

Second, the setting underscores the vulnerability of Eglon, who, despite his royal status and the security of his palace, was caught off guard in a moment of solitude. The summer-parlor, intended as a place of comfort and retreat, became the site of his downfall.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of the summer-parlor in Judges 3 highlights themes of divine intervention and deliverance. Ehud's successful mission against Eglon is portrayed as an act orchestrated by God, who empowers unlikely individuals to achieve His purposes. The setting of the summer-parlor serves as a reminder that God's plans can unfold in the most unexpected places and circumstances.

The account also reflects the cyclical nature of Israel's history during the time of the judges, characterized by periods of oppression, cries for deliverance, and the rise of judges who lead the people back to faithfulness. The summer-parlor, as part of this narrative, is a testament to God's faithfulness in responding to the cries of His people, even when they find themselves in dire situations.Summer-parlor (1 Occurrence)

Judges 3:20
And Ehud came to him; and he was sitting in a summer-parlor, which he had for himself alone: and Ehud said, I have a message from God to thee. And he arose from his seat.
(WBS)

Summer-parlor (1 Occurrence)
Summer-parlor. Summer-house, Summer-parlor. Summing . Multi-Version
Concordance Summer-parlor (1 Occurrence). Judges ...
/s/summer-parlor.htm - 6k

Summer (28 Occurrences)
... The term "summerparlor" in Judges 3:20 (compare 3:24) is literally, "upper room,"
and is so rendered in the Revised Version (British and American). ...
/s/summer.htm - 17k

Summer-house (4 Occurrences)
Summer-house. Summerhouse, Summer-house. Summer-parlor . Int. ... (See JPS ASV DBY
WBS YLT). Summerhouse, Summer-house. Summer-parlor . Reference Bible.
/s/summer-house.htm - 8k

Upper (99 Occurrences)
... etc.; anogeon (Mark 14:15 Luke 22:12), huperoon (Acts 1:13; Acts 9:37, 39; 20:8)):
In Judges 3:20 the English Revised Version renders "summerparlor" and in ...
/u/upper.htm - 39k

Room (174 Occurrences)
... etc.; anogeon (Mark 14:15 Luke 22:12), huperoon (Acts 1:13; Acts 9:37, 39; 20:8)):
In Judges 3:20 the English Revised Version renders "summerparlor" and in ...
/r/room.htm - 39k

Parlor (5 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Parlor (5 Occurrences). Judges 3:20 And Ehud came unto
him; and he was sitting in a summerparlor, which he had for himself alone. ...
/p/parlor.htm - 9k

Summing (1 Occurrence)

/s/summing.htm - 6k

Chamber (73 Occurrences)
... etc.; anogeon (Mark 14:15 Luke 22:12), huperoon (Acts 1:13; Acts 9:37, 39; 20:8)):
In Judges 3:20 the English Revised Version renders "summerparlor" and in ...
/c/chamber.htm - 36k

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