Topical Encyclopedia The Fish Gate, mentioned in the Old Testament, was one of the gates of Jerusalem, specifically noted for its association with the trade and sale of fish. This gate is referenced in several biblical passages, highlighting its significance in the daily life and economy of ancient Jerusalem.Biblical References: 1. Nehemiah 3:3 : "The Fish Gate was rebuilt by the sons of Hassenaah. They laid its beams and installed its doors, bolts, and bars." This verse indicates the importance of the Fish Gate during the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls under Nehemiah's leadership. The gate's reconstruction was crucial for restoring the city's defenses and facilitating commerce. 2. Zephaniah 1:10 : "On that day," declares the LORD, "a cry will go up from the Fish Gate, a wail from the Second Quarter, and a loud crash from the hills." This prophetic passage underscores the Fish Gate's prominence as a bustling area within the city, where the sounds of daily life and commerce were prevalent. 3. 2 Chronicles 33:14 : "Afterward, he rebuilt the outer wall of the City of David, from west of the Gihon in the valley to the entrance of the Fish Gate; he encircled the hill of Ophel and extended it greatly. He also stationed military commanders in all the fortified cities of Judah." This verse highlights the strategic importance of the Fish Gate in the defense and expansion of Jerusalem under King Manasseh. Historical and Cultural Context: The Fish Gate was likely named for its role in the fish trade, serving as a primary entry point for fishermen bringing their catch from the Mediterranean Sea and the Sea of Galilee. The sale of fish was a vital part of the local economy, providing a staple food source for the inhabitants of Jerusalem. The gate's location would have been strategically placed to facilitate easy access for traders and buyers alike. In ancient Israel, fish was a common dietary component, often mentioned alongside bread as a basic food item. The presence of the Fish Gate in Jerusalem underscores the city's role as a central hub for trade and commerce, where various goods, including fish, were bought and sold. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the Fish Gate can be seen as a symbol of provision and sustenance. In the New Testament, fish is often associated with Jesus' miracles, such as the feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21) and the miraculous catch of fish (John 21:1-14). These events highlight God's provision and the abundance found in His kingdom. The Fish Gate, therefore, serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of daily life, commerce, and faith in ancient Israel. It reflects the practical needs of the people and the divine provision that sustains them. The gate's mention in prophetic and historical contexts also points to the broader narrative of God's relationship with His people, encompassing both judgment and restoration. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 33:14Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate, and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height, and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah. Torrey's Topical Textbook Zephaniah 1:10 Library The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert The Story of the Stranger at the Well The Long, Rough Road He Trod Ancestors of the Blessed virgin Solomon's Temple Spiritualized Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... part ii Resources Are the miracles in the Bible to be taken literally? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the 95 Theses of Martin Luther? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus change the water into wine or grape juice? | GotQuestions.org Fishes: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Fishes of Men Ignorant of Future Events Fishes of the Whole Population of Egypt Fishes of Those Ensnared by the Wicked Fishes used As Food by the Egyptians Fishes used As Food by the Jews Fishes: (Bad) of Mere Professors Fishes: Cannot Live Without Water Fishes: Different in Flesh from Beasts Fishes: Distinction Between Clean and Unclean Fishes: Man Given Dominion Over Fishes: Miracles Connected With: Dressed on the Shore Fishes: Miracles Connected With: Immense Draughts of Fishes: Miracles Connected With: Multiplying a Few Fishes: Miracles Connected With: Procuring Tribute Money From Fishes: Mode of Cooking Alluded To Fishes: No Likeness of, to be Made for Worship Fishes: Sold Near the Fish Gate at Jerusalem Fishes: Solomon Wrote the History of Fishes: Taken With: Often Suffered for Man's Sin Fishes: The People of Tyre Traded In Related Terms |
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