Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, fortresses were vital structures that provided protection and security against enemies and natural disasters. These strongholds were often strategically located on elevated terrain, such as hills or mountains, to offer a defensive advantage. The concept of a fortress is frequently used in Scripture to symbolize God's protection and strength for His people.Old Testament References The Old Testament contains numerous references to fortresses, both literal and metaphorical. One of the earliest mentions is found in the account of David, who sought refuge in the strongholds of the wilderness while fleeing from King Saul. In 1 Samuel 23:14, it is recorded, "David stayed in the wilderness strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not deliver David into his hands." The Psalms often depict God as a fortress, emphasizing His role as a protector and deliverer. 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." This imagery reassures believers of God's unwavering strength and His ability to safeguard them from harm. In the prophetic books, fortresses are sometimes used to describe the strength of nations or cities. For instance, in Isaiah 25:12, the prophet speaks of God's judgment against the pride of Moab: "The high-walled fortress will be brought down, cast to the ground, into the dust." Here, the fortress symbolizes human arrogance and self-reliance, which are ultimately subject to God's sovereign power. New Testament Insights While the New Testament does not focus as heavily on physical fortresses, the concept of spiritual fortification is evident. Believers are encouraged to find their security in Christ, who is portrayed as the ultimate source of protection. In 2 Corinthians 10:4, the Apostle Paul writes, "The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds." This passage highlights the spiritual nature of the believer's battle and the divine strength available to overcome spiritual adversities. The metaphor of God as a fortress continues in the New Testament, reinforcing the idea that true safety and refuge are found in a relationship with Him. Hebrews 6:18 speaks of the hope set before us, "so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged." This hope acts as a spiritual fortress, providing believers with assurance and stability. Theological Significance The imagery of fortresses in the Bible serves to remind believers of God's omnipotence and faithfulness. Just as ancient fortresses provided physical protection, God offers spiritual security to those who trust in Him. This theme underscores the importance of relying on divine strength rather than human resources in times of danger and uncertainty. Throughout Scripture, the fortress symbolizes not only protection but also a place of refuge and peace. It is a reminder that, despite the trials and tribulations of life, God remains a steadfast and unshakeable stronghold for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 6:2And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of the Midianites the children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The First Theban Empire Chaldaean Civilization St. Gregory the Great. The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Reaction against Egypt Resources What does it mean that God is the Rock of salvation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5)? | GotQuestions.org Who was Ben-Hadad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Fortresses: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Fortresses: Afforded Protection in Danger Fortresses: Christ, the Defence of Saints Fortresses: Defended Against Enemies Fortresses: Often: Destruction of, Threatened Fortresses: Often: Entered by the Enemy Fortresses: Places Fortified by Art Fortresses: Places Strong by Nature Fortresses: Places Used as Cities Fortresses: Places Used as Forts Fortresses: Places Used as Strong Towers Fortresses: Places Used as Strong-Holds Fortresses: Protection Afforded to Ministers Fortresses: The Security of a Nation Related Terms |
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