Topical Encyclopedia The Gate of Ephraim is one of the notable gates mentioned in the biblical accounts of Jerusalem, serving as a significant point of entry and exit in the ancient city. This gate is referenced in the context of the city's reconstruction and religious celebrations, highlighting its importance in the life and history of Jerusalem.Biblical References The Gate of Ephraim is specifically mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah, which details the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls after the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah 12:39 states: "over the Gate of Ephraim, the Jeshanah Gate, the Fish Gate, the Tower of Hananel, and the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Sheep Gate; and they stopped at the Gate of the Guard." This passage is part of the description of the procession during the dedication of the wall, indicating the gate's location along the northern section of the city wall. Historical and Cultural Context The Gate of Ephraim likely derived its name from the tribe of Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel. This naming convention suggests a connection or route leading towards the territory associated with the tribe. The gate's position on the northern side of Jerusalem would have made it a strategic point for trade and travel, facilitating movement between the city and the northern regions of Israel. In the context of Nehemiah's time, the Gate of Ephraim was part of the extensive efforts to restore Jerusalem's fortifications. The rebuilding of the walls and gates was a critical task for the returned exiles, symbolizing the restoration of their national identity and religious life. The successful completion of this project under Nehemiah's leadership was a testament to the community's dedication and God's providence. Religious Significance The Gate of Ephraim, like other gates of Jerusalem, held religious significance as it was part of the city's sacred geography. The gates of Jerusalem were not merely functional structures but also carried symbolic meanings, often associated with the spiritual and communal life of the Israelites. The dedication of the wall, including the Gate of Ephraim, was marked by a ceremonial procession, underscoring the gate's role in the collective worship and celebration of God's faithfulness. Archaeological Insights While the exact location and archaeological remains of the Gate of Ephraim have not been definitively identified, its mention in the biblical text provides valuable insights into the layout and structure of ancient Jerusalem. The gate's inclusion in the list of rebuilt structures in Nehemiah suggests its significance in the city's defense and daily life. Conclusion The Gate of Ephraim stands as a testament to the historical and spiritual heritage of Jerusalem. Its mention in the Bible reflects the city's complex history and the enduring legacy of the Israelite tribes. As part of the broader narrative of Jerusalem's restoration, the Gate of Ephraim symbolizes the resilience and faith of the Jewish people in the face of adversity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 12:39And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even to the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Overcoming Great Difficulties Journey to Jericho. --The Healing of Blind Bartimeus. (Matt. , The Strait Gate; From the Talmud and Hebraica The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: The Jerusalem Sinner Saved; Beginning at Jerusalem. --Luke xxiv. 47. The Life, as Amplified by Mediaeval Biographers. Jesus About his Father's Business Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources What is the significance of the twelve gates in Revelation 21? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org What are the gates of hell? | 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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