Topical Encyclopedia The Fish Gate is one of the notable gates mentioned in the Bible as part of the ancient city of Jerusalem. It holds historical and theological significance, particularly in the context of the Old Testament narratives. The gate is referenced in several biblical passages, providing insights into its role and importance in the life of Jerusalem.Biblical References The Fish Gate is first mentioned in the book of Nehemiah, which details the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls after the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah 3:3 states, "The Fish Gate was rebuilt by the sons of Hassenaah. They laid its beams and put its doors and bolts and bars in place." This passage highlights the collaborative effort of the Israelites in restoring the city's defenses, with the Fish Gate being a critical component of the northern wall. Another reference to the Fish Gate is found in Zephaniah 1:10, which prophesies, "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 verse is part of a larger prophecy concerning the impending judgment on Jerusalem, indicating the gate's location as a significant point of entry and activity within the city. Historical Context The Fish Gate likely derived its name from its proximity to the fish market or its use by fishermen bringing their catch into the city. Situated on the northern side of Jerusalem, it was a vital access point for trade and commerce. The gate's strategic location made it an essential part of the city's infrastructure, facilitating economic activity and contributing to the daily life of its inhabitants. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the Fish Gate represents themes of restoration and judgment. In Nehemiah, the rebuilding of the gate symbolizes the renewal of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community after the exile. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in restoring His people and their city. Conversely, the mention of the Fish Gate in Zephaniah underscores the reality of divine judgment. The prophetic cry from the gate serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance. It reminds believers of the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant and the repercussions of straying from His commandments. Archaeological Insights While the exact location of the ancient Fish Gate remains a subject of scholarly debate, archaeological excavations in Jerusalem have uncovered remnants of city walls and gates from various periods. These findings provide valuable context for understanding the city's layout and the role of its gates in ancient times. In summary, the Fish Gate of Jerusalem is a significant biblical landmark, rich in historical and theological meaning. Its mentions in Scripture highlight its importance in the life of the city and its people, serving as a symbol of both restoration and judgment in the biblical narrative. 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 Nehemiah 3:3 Library Overcoming Great Difficulties By the Sea of Galilee - the Final Call of the First Disciples, and ... The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Song of Songs of Solomon The Lame Man Cured by Peter and John. Bartimaeus The Presentation of the Blessed virgin in the Temple The Broad Wall The Crowned Christ Reigning Solomon's Temple Spiritualized 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 |
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