Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a metal known for its strength and durability, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a material used in various constructions, including gates. The use of iron for making gates is significant, as it symbolizes strength, security, and impenetrability, qualities that were highly valued in ancient times for the protection of cities and fortresses.Biblical References: 1. City Gates: Iron gates were often used in the construction of city gates, serving as a formidable barrier against enemies. In the ancient Near East, city gates were not only entry points but also places of judgment and commerce. The strength of iron made it an ideal material for these critical structures. In Acts 12:10, we read about Peter's miraculous escape from prison: "They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city, which opened for them by itself; and they went outside and walked along one street, and suddenly the angel left him" . This passage highlights the significance of iron gates as secure barriers, which in this instance, were supernaturally opened. 2. Symbol of Strength: Iron gates are emblematic of strength and resilience. In Isaiah 45:2, God promises to Cyrus, "I will go before you and level the mountains; I will break down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron" . Here, the breaking of iron bars signifies divine intervention and the overcoming of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. 3. Fortified Cities: The use of iron in fortifications is further illustrated in the description of fortified cities. In Deuteronomy 3:5, the cities of Bashan are described as "fortified with high walls, gates, and bars" . Although iron is not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of fortified cities often implies the use of strong materials like iron for gates and bars. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient world, iron was a valuable resource, and its use in construction was a mark of technological advancement. The ability to forge iron into gates and other defensive structures was a significant development in the history of warfare and city planning. Iron gates provided not only physical security but also a psychological deterrent to potential invaders. The biblical portrayal of iron gates reflects the broader cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, where cities were often under threat from hostile forces. The strength of iron gates was a critical factor in the defense strategies of ancient cities, and their mention in the Bible underscores their importance in the daily lives and spiritual symbolism of the people. Spiritual Significance: In a spiritual sense, iron gates can represent the barriers and challenges that believers face in their walk of faith. The imagery of God breaking through iron gates, as seen in Isaiah 45:2, serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and ability to overcome any obstacle. This metaphorical use of iron gates encourages believers to trust in God's power to deliver and protect them, just as He did for His people in biblical times. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 12:10When they were past the first and the second ward, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and immediately the angel departed from him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Whether Christ Made any Stay in Hell? How the Sedition was Again Revived Within Jerusalem and yet the ... Shoes of Iron, and Strength Sufficient: a New Year's Promise How Herod Rebuilt the Temple and Raised it Higher and Made it More ... How one of the Towers Erected by the Romans Fell Down of Its Own ... 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Christ Glorified as the Builder of his Church Appendix 1 Massecheth Middoth Resources What is the story of Deborah and Barak? | GotQuestions.orgFriendship ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is an ox goad / oxgoad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Iron: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iron of Greater Gravity than Water Iron of Severe Exercise of Power Iron of Small Comparative Value Iron used from the Earliest Age Iron: (Seared With) Insensibility of Conscience Iron: First Recorded Use of Ax Iron: First Recorded Use of Bedstead Iron: First Recorded Use of Breastplate Iron: First Recorded Use of Chariot Iron: First Recorded Use of Fetters Iron: First Recorded Use of File Iron: First Recorded Use of Furnace Iron: First Recorded Use of Gate Iron: First Recorded Use of Harrow Iron: First Recorded Use of Horn Iron: First Recorded Use of Idols Iron: First Recorded Use of Melted Iron: First Recorded Use of Ore of Iron: First Recorded Use of Pans Iron: First Recorded Use of Pen Iron: First Recorded Use of Pillars Iron: First Recorded Use of Rods for Scourging Iron: First Recorded Use of Stones of Iron: First Recorded Use of Threshing Instruments Iron: First Recorded Use of Tools Iron: First Recorded Use of Used in the Temple Iron: First Recorded Use of Vessels Iron: First Recorded Use of Weapons Iron: First Recorded Use of Yokes Iron: from the North Hardest and Best Iron: Great Quantity of, Provided for the Temple Iron: Made Into: Graving Tools Iron: Made Into: Implements for Husbandry Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges Iron: Made Into: Tools for Artificers Iron: Made Into: Weapons of War Iron: Miraculously Made to Swim Iron: Mode of Purifying, Taken in War Iron: Taken in War, often Dedicated to God Iron: The Land of Canaan Abounded With Related Terms |
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