Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, fortresses served as critical structures for defense and habitation, often evolving into significant urban centers. These fortified places were strategically located to provide protection against invading forces and to control trade routes. The Bible frequently references such fortresses, highlighting their importance in the historical and spiritual narrative of the Israelites and surrounding nations.Jericho One of the earliest and most famous examples of a fortress city is Jericho. Known as the "City of Palms," Jericho was a heavily fortified city in the Jordan Valley. Its walls are famously mentioned in the account of the Israelites' conquest under Joshua. According to the biblical narrative, the walls of Jericho fell after the Israelites marched around the city for seven days, as described in Joshua 6:20: "So when the rams’ horns sounded, the people shouted. And when they heard the blast of the horn, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it." Jerusalem Jerusalem, the city of David, is another prominent example of a fortress that became a central urban hub. Initially captured by King David from the Jebusites, Jerusalem was fortified and expanded to become the political and spiritual center of Israel. The city's fortifications were enhanced by subsequent kings, including Solomon, who built the First Temple, and Hezekiah, who constructed a tunnel to secure the city's water supply during sieges. Psalm 48:12-13 reflects on the strength and beauty of Jerusalem's fortifications: "Walk around Zion, encircle her, count her towers, consider her ramparts, tour her citadels, that you may tell the next generation." Samaria Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, was established by King Omri. Built on a hill, Samaria was a formidable fortress city that played a significant role in the history of Israel. Despite its strong defenses, Samaria eventually fell to the Assyrians in 722 BC, as recorded in 2 Kings 17:5-6: "Then the king of Assyria invaded the whole land, marched up to Samaria, and besieged it for three years. In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported the Israelites to Assyria." Hazor Hazor was another significant fortress city in Canaan, known for its strategic location and formidable defenses. It was a major Canaanite city before being conquered by Joshua, as noted in Joshua 11:10-11: "Then Joshua turned back and captured Hazor and put its king to the sword. Hazor had formerly been the head of all these kingdoms. They struck down everyone in it with the sword, devoting them to destruction. Not a single person was left, and Joshua burned Hazor itself." Masada Although not mentioned in the Bible, Masada is a notable fortress in Jewish history. Built by Herod the Great, it became a symbol of Jewish resistance against Roman occupation. The fortress, located on a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea, was the site of the last stand of Jewish rebels during the First Jewish-Roman War. Significance in Scripture Fortresses in the Bible often symbolize strength, protection, and divine refuge. They serve as metaphors for God's protection over His people. 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 underscores the belief in God's unwavering protection and the security found in His presence. Throughout biblical history, fortresses were not only physical structures but also represented the spiritual fortitude and resilience of God's people. They remind believers of the importance of seeking refuge in God, who is the ultimate fortress and protector. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 9:31And he sent messengers to Abimelech privately, saying, Behold, Gaal the son of Ebed and his brothers be come to Shechem; and, behold, they fortify the city against you. Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 4:2 Library Asa's Reformation, and Consequent Peace and victory Cestius Sends Ambassadors to Nero. The People of Damascus Slay ... How Alexandra by Gaining the Good-Will of the Pharisees, Retained ... In Palestine - Jews and Gentiles in the Land' - their Mutual ... Political Religion The Honors that were Paid the Jews; and the Leagues that were Made ... Severinus in Germany. Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest King Herod's Enrollment How Herod Slew Sohemus and Mariamne and Afterward Alexandra and ... Resources Do we need to be aware of the spiritual battle that is taking place around us? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the North in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Who is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | 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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