Topical Encyclopedia The concept of cities built with compactness is a theme that emerges in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of Jerusalem. This idea is not only architectural but also symbolic, representing unity, strength, and divine order.Jerusalem as a Model of Compactness Jerusalem is often highlighted as a city built with compactness. In Psalm 122:3, the psalmist declares, "Jerusalem is built as a city that is compact together" . This description emphasizes the city's structural integrity and unity, reflecting its role as the spiritual and political center of Israel. The compactness of Jerusalem is seen as a reflection of its divine purpose and the unity of the tribes of Israel who gather there for worship and governance. Symbolism of Compactness The compactness of a city in biblical terms often symbolizes more than just physical proximity. It represents a harmonious community bound together by shared faith and purpose. In the case of Jerusalem, its compactness is a metaphor for the unity of God's people, who are called to live in harmony and mutual support. This unity is essential for the fulfillment of God's covenant with Israel, as the city serves as the focal point for worship and the presence of God. Historical and Theological Context Historically, cities in ancient Israel were often built with compactness for practical reasons, such as defense and efficient use of space. Walls were constructed to protect inhabitants from external threats, and buildings were closely packed to maximize the use of limited land. Theologically, this compactness is seen as a reflection of divine order and protection. The city of Jerusalem, in particular, is portrayed as a place where God's presence dwells, and its compactness is a testament to its sanctity and the divine protection over it. Prophetic Vision of a Compact City The prophets also envision a future where the compactness of Jerusalem is restored and enhanced. In Ezekiel's vision of the new temple and city, there is an emphasis on precise measurements and orderly construction, symbolizing the restoration of divine order and the reestablishment of God's kingdom on earth. This prophetic vision underscores the importance of compactness as a sign of God's ultimate plan for His people. Practical Implications for Believers For believers, the concept of a city built with compactness serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and community within the body of Christ. Just as the physical compactness of Jerusalem symbolizes unity, believers are called to live in spiritual unity, supporting one another and working together to fulfill God's purposes. The New Testament echoes this theme, urging Christians to be "built together into a dwelling place for God in His Spirit" (Ephesians 2:22). In summary, the biblical theme of cities built with compactness, particularly as seen in Jerusalem, carries rich symbolic meaning. It reflects the unity, strength, and divine order that God desires for His people, both in ancient times and today. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 122:3Jerusalem is built as a city that is compact together: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) Resources Does God killing people make Him a murderer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the strange flesh in Jude 1:7? | GotQuestions.org What were the Dark Ages? | GotQuestions.org Cities: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cities of Refuge of the Hope of the Gospel Cities of Refuge: (The Way To) Christ Cities of Refuge: Afforded No Asylum to Murderers Cities of Refuge: Required to Be: Easy of Access Cities of Refuge: Required to Be: Open to all Manslayers Cities of Refuge: Strangers Might Take Advantage of Cities of Refuge: Those Admitted to not Protected Outside of Cities of Refuge: Those Admitted to Obliged to Remain In, Until the High Priest's Death Cities of Refuge: Those Admitted to Were Put on Their Trial Cities were Called For: The Country in Which Built Cities were Called For: The Family of the Founder Cities were Called For: The Proprietor of the Land Cities were Frequently: Besieged Cities were Frequently: Burned Cities were Frequently: Depopulated Cities were Frequently: Made Heaps of Ruins Cities were Frequently: Pillaged Cities were Frequently: Razed and Sown With Salt Cities were Frequently: Stormed Cities were Frequently: Wasted by Famine Cities were Frequently: Wasted by Pestilence Cities: A Great Defence to a Country Cities: Afforded Refuge in Times of Danger Cities: Arranged in Streets and Lanes Cities: Artificial Mode of Supplying Water To Cities: Built in Desert Places Cities: Built in Pleasant Situations Cities: Built of Brick and Mortar Cities: Built of Brick and Slime Cities: Built of Stone and Wood Cities: Built with Compactness Cities: Built: Often of a Square Form Cities: Built: On Solid Foundations Cities: Designated as Merchant Cities: Designated as Treasure Cities: Designed for Habitations Cities: Different Kinds of Chariot Cities: Different Kinds of Commercial Cities: Different Kinds of Fenced Cities: Different Kinds of Levitical Cities: Different Kinds of Refuge Cities: Different Kinds of Royal Cities: Different Kinds of Store Cities: Different Kinds of Treasure Cities: Difficulty of Taking, Alluded To Cities: Government of, by Rulers Cities: Inhabitants of, Called Citizens Cities: Often Built to Perpetuate a Name Cities: Often Deserted on the Approach of an Enemy Cities: Often Fortified by Art Cities: Often Fortified by Nature Cities: Often Founded and Enlarged by Blood and Rapine Cities: Often Great and Goodly Cities: Often of Great Antiquity Cities: Prosperity of, Increased by Commerce Cities: Protected at Night by Watchmen Related Terms Chariot-cities (3 Occurrences) Treasure-cities (1 Occurrence) Kiriath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) |
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