Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, walls served as essential structures for protection, demarcation, and the establishment of sacred and communal spaces. The construction of walls using both stone and wood is a recurring theme in the Scriptures, reflecting the practical and symbolic significance of these materials.Stone and Wood in Construction The use of stone and wood together in wall construction is evident throughout the Bible. Stone, with its durability and strength, was often used for the foundation and outer layers of walls, providing a formidable barrier against invaders and the elements. Wood, on the other hand, was utilized for its versatility and ease of shaping, often forming the inner framework or decorative elements of the structure. In the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, King Solomon employed both materials extensively. 1 Kings 6:15-16 describes the use of cedar wood for the interior: "He lined the interior walls with cedar paneling from the floor of the temple to the ceiling, and he covered the floor of the temple with planks of juniper." The combination of stone and wood not only provided structural integrity but also added to the aesthetic beauty and spiritual symbolism of the sacred space. Symbolism and Significance The dual use of stone and wood in walls carries rich symbolic meaning. Stone, often associated with permanence and divine strength, represents the enduring nature of God's promises and the steadfastness of faith. Wood, a material that can be shaped and crafted, symbolizes human effort and the cooperation between divine providence and human agency. In the prophetic literature, walls often symbolize protection and divine favor. Isaiah 26:1 proclaims, "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 conveys God's protective care and the security found in His salvation. Historical and Cultural Context The construction of walls using stone and wood was not unique to Israel but was a common practice in the ancient Near East. Archaeological findings from various sites, including Jericho and Jerusalem, reveal the use of these materials in city fortifications and domestic architecture. The combination of stone and wood allowed for the efficient use of available resources, adapting to the geographical and environmental conditions of the region. In Nehemiah's time, the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls after the Babylonian exile was a significant event, symbolizing the restoration of the community and the renewal of covenantal faithfulness. Nehemiah 4:6 states, "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 collaborative effort in rebuilding the walls underscores the unity and determination of the people under God's guidance. Conclusion The biblical depiction of walls made of stone and wood together highlights the practical, symbolic, and spiritual dimensions of these structures. As both a physical and metaphorical element, walls in the Bible reflect the interplay between divine strength and human endeavor, serving as a testament to God's enduring protection and the faithfulness of His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezra 5:8Be it known to the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is built with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goes fast on, and prospers in their hands. Torrey's Topical Textbook Habakkuk 2:11 Library A Description of Some Parts of Ancient Jerusalem. The City of Benares. Praises and Vows Accepted in Zion On the Incarnation and Redemption On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xviii. 7, Where we are ... Concerning Masada and those Sicarii who Kept It; and How Silva ... Malachy's Pity for his Deceased Sister. He Restores the Monastery ... The Church Triumphant The Memphite Empire Journey to Evora Resources What is the significance of the walls of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org Who was Nehemiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics of the Cities Walls of Babylon of the Cities Walls of Bashan, Destroyed by the Israelites of the Cities Walls of Beth-Shan of the Cities Walls of Jericho of the Cities Walls of the New Jerusalem of the Cities Walls: Houses Built Upon Walls of Cities were Battered by Besieging Armies Walls of Cities were Broad and Places of Public Resort Walls of Cities were Strongly Manned in War Walls of Cities: Adroitness of Soldiers in Scaling Alluded To Walls of Cities: Custom of Dedicating Walls of Cities: Danger of Approaching Too Near To, in Time of War Walls of Cities: Destruction of, a Punishment and Cause of Grief Walls of Cities: Frequently Laid in Ruins Walls of Cities: had Towers Built on Them Walls of Cities: Houses often Built On Walls of Cities: Houses Sometimes Broken Down to Repair, and Fortify Walls of Cities: Idolatrous Rites Performed On Walls of Cities: Kept by Watchmen Night and Day Walls of Cities: Often Very High Walls of Cities: Persons Let Down From Walls of Cities: Sometimes Burned Walls of Cities: Strongly Fortified Walls of Cities: The Bodies of Enemies Sometimes Fastened On, As a Disgrace Walls of Cities: The Falling of, Sometimes Occasioned Great Destruction Walls of Houses: Could be Easily Dug Through Walls of Houses: had Nails or Pegs Fastened Into Them when Built Walls of Houses: Liable to Leprosy Walls of Houses: Often Infested With Serpents Walls of Houses: The Seat Next, Was the Place of Distinction Walls of Houses: Usually Plastered Walls of Ordinances As a Protection to the Church Walls of the Church As a Protection to the Nation Walls of the Protection of God Walls of the Wealth of the Rich in his own Conceit Walls of Those Who Afford Protection Walls were Probably often Strengthened With Plates of Iron or Brass Walls: (Bowing or Tottering) of the Wicked Under Judgments Walls: (Brazen) of Prophets in Their Testimony Against the Wicked Walls: (Daubed With Untempered Mortar) of the Teaching of False Walls: (Of Partition) Separation of Jews and Gentiles Walls: Designed for Separation Walls: Frequently Made of Stone and Wood Together Walls: Hyssop Frequently Grew On Walls: Miracles Connected With: Falling of the Walls of Jericho Walls: Miracles Connected With: Handwriting on the Wall of Belshazzar's Palace Walls: Small Towns and Villages Were not Surrounded By Related Terms |
    |