Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient Near East, cities were frequently fortified to protect inhabitants from invading forces and to assert the power and stability of the ruling authority. The Bible provides numerous references to fortified cities, highlighting their strategic importance and the artistry involved in their construction.Biblical References to Fortified Cities The concept of fortified cities is prevalent throughout the Old Testament. These cities were often surrounded by walls, towers, and gates, serving as both defensive structures and symbols of strength. In Deuteronomy 3:5, the Bible describes the cities of Bashan: "All these cities were fortified with high walls and gates and bars, besides a great many unwalled villages." This passage underscores the common practice of fortifying cities to ensure security and control. Jericho is one of the most famous examples of a fortified city in the Bible. Joshua 6:1 states, "Now Jericho was tightly shut up because of the Israelites; no one went out and no one came in." The walls of Jericho were renowned for their strength, yet they fell miraculously at the sound of trumpets and the shout of the Israelites, demonstrating God's power over human fortifications. Artistry in Fortification The construction of fortified cities required significant skill and artistry. The walls were often built with precision and care, using materials such as stone and mud bricks. In 2 Chronicles 32:5, King Hezekiah's efforts to fortify Jerusalem are detailed: "Then he worked hard to rebuild all the broken sections of the wall and raised towers on it. He built another wall outside that one and reinforced the supporting terraces of the City of David. He also made large numbers of weapons and shields." The artistry involved in fortifying cities extended beyond mere construction. The gates of these cities were often adorned with intricate designs and served as places of judgment and commerce. In Nehemiah 3, the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and gates is described in detail, highlighting the collaborative effort and craftsmanship required to restore the city's defenses. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Fortified cities in the Bible also carry symbolic and spiritual significance. They represent human efforts to achieve security and stability, yet they also serve as reminders of the ultimate protection offered by God. Psalm 18:2 declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." The imagery of fortified cities is used metaphorically to describe God's protection over His people. Proverbs 18:10 states, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." This verse emphasizes the spiritual refuge found in God, surpassing any physical fortification. Conclusion The Bible's depiction of fortified cities reflects the historical reality of ancient urban life and the artistry involved in their construction. These cities served as centers of power and protection, yet they also point to the greater security found in God's providence and care. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 11:5-10,23And Rehoboam dwelled in Jerusalem, and built cities for defense in Judah. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 48:12,13 Jeremiah 4:5 Daniel 11:15 Library Six Cities Jehoshaphat Jewish Homes Results of Transgression Gainas Meets his Doom Guelf and Ghibelline. (I) Psalm LXII. Arrival The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea The Poet. Resources What were the cities of refuge in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were Admah and Zeboiim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus mention Tyre and Sidon in Luke 10:14? | 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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