Topical Encyclopedia In ancient biblical times, the walls of cities were not merely physical structures but served as vital components of a city's defense and security. These walls were often massive, constructed from stone or mud bricks, and were designed to protect inhabitants from invading armies and wild animals. The presence of watchmen on these walls was crucial, as they were tasked with the responsibility of maintaining vigilance both day and night.Biblical Significance The role of watchmen is frequently mentioned in the Bible, highlighting their importance in the protection and alertness of a city. In Isaiah 62:6 , the prophet declares, "On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest." This verse underscores the continuous duty of the watchmen, who were to remain ever-watchful, ensuring the safety of the city and its inhabitants. Symbolism and Spiritual Implications The concept of watchmen on the walls extends beyond the physical realm, often symbolizing spiritual vigilance and readiness. In Ezekiel 33:7 , God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for the house of Israel, saying, "As for you, son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me." Here, the watchman's role is to listen to God's word and warn the people, emphasizing the spiritual responsibility of leaders to guide and protect their communities. Historical Context Historically, the walls of cities like Jericho, Jerusalem, and Babylon were formidable structures. The fall of Jericho, as described in Joshua 6, illustrates the significance of city walls and the divine intervention required to breach them. The walls of Jerusalem, rebuilt under Nehemiah's leadership, were essential for the restoration and protection of the Jewish people returning from exile (Nehemiah 4:6-9). Watchmen's Duties The duties of watchmen were comprehensive. They were to observe and report any approaching danger, whether it be an enemy army or a natural threat. Their position required constant alertness, as any lapse could lead to disaster. In 2 Kings 9:17 , a watchman on the tower in Jezreel spots the company of Jehu approaching and reports it, demonstrating the critical role of watchmen in early warning systems. Moral and Ethical Lessons The presence of watchmen on city walls serves as a metaphor for moral and ethical vigilance in the life of believers. Just as watchmen were to remain alert, Christians are called to be spiritually vigilant, guarding against sin and temptation. In 1 Peter 5:8 , believers are admonished, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." Conclusion The walls of cities and the watchmen who guarded them are rich in biblical symbolism and historical significance. They remind us of the importance of vigilance, both physically and spiritually, and the need for constant readiness in the face of potential threats. Through the lens of Scripture, the watchmen's role becomes a powerful metaphor for spiritual leadership and the call to protect and guide God's people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Songs 5:7The watchmen that went about the city found me, they smote me, they wounded me; the keepers of the walls took away my veil from me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 62:6 Library A Call to Prayer and Testimony Putting God to Work "The Time of Trouble. " The Time of Trouble How Trypho after He had Beaten Demetrius Delivered the Kingdom to ... Jehoram Succeeds Jehoshaphat; How Joram, his Namesake, King of ... The Memphite Empire The Close of the Theban Empire --(Continued) The Transformation of Rome from a Pagan into a Christian City. Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. Resources Why was it important to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the walls of Jericho falling down? | GotQuestions.org What will be the purpose of the walls around the New Jerusalem? | 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 |
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