Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, fortresses were strategic locations used for defense and protection against enemies. These strongholds were often situated on elevated terrain, providing a vantage point over surrounding areas. The concept of a fortress is both literal and metaphorical in the Bible, symbolizing physical protection and divine refuge.Old Testament References 1. Jericho: One of the earliest and most famous fortresses mentioned in the Bible is Jericho. Known for its formidable walls, Jericho was a Canaanite city that the Israelites conquered under Joshua's leadership. The miraculous fall of Jericho's walls, as described in Joshua 6, underscores the power of faith and obedience to God. "When the people heard the sound of the trumpet, they raised a great shout, and the wall collapsed" (Joshua 6:20). 2. Zion (Jerusalem): The city of Jerusalem, often referred to as Zion, was a significant fortress in Israel's history. King David captured the Jebusite stronghold and established it as the political and spiritual center of Israel. "Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion (that is, the City of David)" (2 Samuel 5:7). Jerusalem's fortifications were expanded and strengthened by subsequent kings, including Solomon and Hezekiah. 3. Masada: Although not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, Masada is a well-known fortress in Jewish history. Built by Herod the Great, it served as a refuge for Jewish rebels during the First Jewish-Roman War. Its dramatic location and tragic end have made it a symbol of Jewish resilience. 4. The Stronghold of En Gedi: David sought refuge from King Saul in the wilderness strongholds, including En Gedi. These natural fortresses provided safety and seclusion. "So David stayed in the wilderness strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph" (1 Samuel 23:14). Metaphorical Use The Bible frequently uses the imagery of a fortress to describe God's protection and strength. This metaphor emphasizes the security and refuge found in a relationship with the Almighty. 1. God as a Fortress: The Psalms often depict God as a fortress, highlighting His role as a protector and deliverer. "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer" (Psalm 18:2). This imagery reassures believers of God's unwavering support in times of trouble. 2. Spiritual Strongholds: The Apostle Paul speaks of spiritual strongholds in the context of spiritual warfare. Believers are called to demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God. "The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds" (2 Corinthians 10:4). New Testament Context While the New Testament does not focus on physical fortresses as much as the Old Testament, the concept of spiritual fortification is prevalent. Believers are encouraged to put on the full armor of God to stand firm against spiritual adversaries (Ephesians 6:10-18). Conclusion Fortresses in the Bible serve as powerful symbols of protection, both in the physical and spiritual realms. They remind believers of God's enduring strength and the security found in His presence. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 5:9So David dwelled in the fort, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from Millo and inward. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 25:12 Library The First Theban Empire Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Chaldaean Civilization The Memphite Empire The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire 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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