Topical Bible: Jerusalem: Protected by Forts and Bulwarks

◄ Jerusalem: Protected by Forts and Bulwarks ►

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Jerusalem, the ancient and sacred city, holds a significant place in biblical history as a center of worship, governance, and divine promise. Throughout the Scriptures, Jerusalem is depicted as a city fortified by God and man, symbolizing both physical and spiritual protection.

Biblical References to Fortifications

The fortifications of Jerusalem are mentioned in various passages, highlighting the city's strategic and spiritual importance. In Psalm 48:12-13 , the psalmist invites the faithful to "walk around Zion, encircle her, count her towers, consider her ramparts, tour her citadels, that you may tell the next generation." This passage underscores the city's formidable defenses and the divine protection that surrounds it.

The historical accounts of Jerusalem's fortifications are further detailed in the narratives of the kings of Israel and Judah. King David, after capturing the city from the Jebusites, established it as the political and spiritual capital of Israel. His son Solomon expanded the city's fortifications, as described in 1 Kings 9:15 : "This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon conscripted to build the house of the LORD, his own palace, the supporting terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer."

Symbolism of Protection

Jerusalem's physical defenses are often used as metaphors for divine protection. In Isaiah 26:1 , the prophet declares, "In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; He sets up salvation as walls and ramparts." Here, the imagery of walls and ramparts signifies God's salvation and protection over His people.

The Book of Zechariah also emphasizes the divine safeguarding of Jerusalem. Zechariah 2:5 states, "For I will be a wall of fire around it, declares the LORD, and I will be the glory in her midst." This passage reflects the belief that God's presence is the ultimate fortification, surpassing any human-made defenses.

Historical Context

Throughout its history, Jerusalem has faced numerous sieges and attacks, yet its fortifications have often played a crucial role in its survival. The city's walls were rebuilt and strengthened during the reign of Nehemiah, as recorded in Nehemiah 4:6 : "So we rebuilt the wall until all of it was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work."

The fortifications of Jerusalem were not only physical but also spiritual, as the city was seen as the dwelling place of God. This dual aspect of protection is evident in the Psalms, where Jerusalem is frequently described as a place of refuge and divine presence.

Theological Implications

The fortifications of Jerusalem serve as a reminder of God's covenant with His people and His promise to protect and preserve them. The city's defenses symbolize the strength and security found in a relationship with God, as well as the hope of ultimate deliverance and restoration.

In the New Testament, the imagery of Jerusalem's protection is extended to the spiritual realm, where believers are encouraged to find their security in Christ. Hebrews 12:22 speaks of the "heavenly Jerusalem," a city that represents the eternal and unshakeable kingdom of God.

Jerusalem's forts and bulwarks, both literal and metaphorical, continue to inspire faith and trust in God's enduring protection and sovereignty over His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 48:12,13
Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... Jerusalem, possibly in part to be attributed to the ... A range of forts, Ibleam, Taanach,
and Megiddo,* drawn ... across the line of advance, protected its southern ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm