Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, gates often symbolize power, authority, and protection. They serve as critical points of entry and defense for cities and fortresses. The phrase "fastened with bars of iron" emphasizes the strength and security of these gates, suggesting an impenetrable barrier that requires divine intervention to overcome.Biblical References The imagery of gates fastened with bars of iron is notably found in Psalm 107:16: "For He has broken down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron." . This verse highlights God's power to liberate and deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The context of Psalm 107 is one of thanksgiving for God's deliverance from various forms of distress, including captivity and bondage. The breaking of iron bars signifies God's ability to free His people from the strongest of confinements. In Isaiah 45:2, the Lord promises Cyrus, the Persian king, that He will "go before you and level the mountains; I will break down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron." . This prophecy underscores God's sovereignty and His role in orchestrating historical events to fulfill His purposes. The breaking of iron bars here symbolizes the removal of barriers to accomplish divine plans, demonstrating that no human fortification can withstand God's will. Symbolism and Interpretation The gates fastened with bars of iron represent formidable challenges or strongholds that stand in opposition to God's purposes or the well-being of His people. In a spiritual sense, these gates can symbolize the barriers of sin, oppression, or spiritual bondage that hold individuals captive. The breaking of these gates by divine intervention is a powerful metaphor for salvation and deliverance. From a theological perspective, the imagery of iron bars being cut through by God serves as a reminder of His omnipotence and His commitment to the redemption of His people. It reassures believers of God's ability to overcome any obstacle, no matter how daunting it may appear. Historical and Cultural Context In ancient Near Eastern cities, gates were not only defensive structures but also places of commerce, legal transactions, and social interaction. They were often fortified with materials like bronze and iron to withstand attacks. The strength of a city's gates was a measure of its security and stability. Thus, the biblical references to gates fastened with bars of iron would have resonated with contemporary audiences as a depiction of ultimate security and strength. Application for Believers For believers, the concept of gates fastened with bars of iron serves as an encouragement to trust in God's power to break through the barriers in their lives. It is a call to faith, reminding Christians that no situation is beyond God's ability to redeem and transform. The imagery invites believers to rely on God's strength rather than their own, acknowledging that true deliverance comes from Him alone. In summary, the biblical motif of gates fastened with bars of iron encapsulates themes of divine power, deliverance, and the overcoming of obstacles. It serves as a powerful testament to God's ability to break through the strongest barriers, offering hope and assurance to those who trust in Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 107:16For he has broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 45:2 Library Delivered from Prison The Destruction of Jerusalem. The Destruction of Jerusalem Jewish Homes The Waterer Watered The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment: The Soul Winner Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Resources What will be the purpose of the walls around the New Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of a city gate in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is the King of glory? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gates of Cities: Battering Rams Used Against Gates of Cities: Chief Places of Concourse Gates of Cities: Chief Points of Attack in War Gates of Cities: Conferences Held At Gates of Cities: Councils of State Held At Gates of Cities: Courts of Justice Held At Gates of Cities: Criminals Punished At Gates of Cities: Custom of Sitting At, in the Evening, Alluded To Gates of Cities: Experienced officers Placed Over Gates of Cities: Idolatrous Rites Performed At Gates of Cities: Land Redeemed At Gates of Cities: Markets Held At Gates of Cities: Often Razed and Burned Gates of Cities: Proclamations Made At Gates of Cities: Public Censure Passed At Gates of Cities: Public Commendation Given At Gates of Cities: Shut at Night-Fall Gates of Cities: Troops Reviewed At, Going to War Gates of Jerusalem: Corner Gate Gates of Jerusalem: Gate of Ephraim Gates of Jerusalem: Gate of Miphkad Gates of Jerusalem: Gate of the Fountain Gates of Jerusalem: High Gate of Benjamin Gates of Jerusalem: Horse Gate Gates of Jerusalem: Sheep Gate Gates of Jerusalem: Valley Gate Gates of Jerusalem: Water Gate Gates of the Powers of Hell (Hades) Gates of the Temple: Called Gates of Righteousness Gates of the Temple: Called Gates of the Lord Gates of the Temple: Called Gates of Zion Gates of the Temple: Charge of, Given by Lot Gates of the Temple: Frequented by Beggars Gates of the Temple: Levites the Porters of Gates of the Temple: One Specially Beautiful Gates of the Temple: Overlaid With Gold Gates of the Temple: The Pious Israelites Delighted to Enter Gates of the Temple: The Treasury Placed At Gates: (Of Heaven) Access to God Gates: (Of Hell) Satan's Power Gates: (Strait) the Entrance to Life Gates: (Wide) the Entrance to Ruin Gates: Bodies of Criminals Exposed to View At Gates: Carcase of Sin-Offering Burned Without Gates: Conferences on Public Affairs Gates: Criminals Generally Punished Without Gates: Fastened With Bars of Iron Gates: Holding Courts of Justice Gates: Jails Made in the Towers of Gates: Place for Public Concourse Gates: Punishment of Criminals Outside of Gates: Religious Services Held At Gates: The Open Square of, a Place for Idlers Gates: The Place for the Transaction of Public Business, Announcement of Legal Transactions Related Terms |