Topical Encyclopedia A sentry, in biblical terms, refers to a guard or watchman assigned to protect, oversee, or alert others to potential danger. The role of a sentry is significant throughout the Bible, symbolizing vigilance, responsibility, and spiritual alertness. The concept of a sentry is woven into the fabric of biblical narratives, often serving as a metaphor for spiritual watchfulness and moral duty.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, sentries were crucial for the protection of cities and the safety of their inhabitants. The Hebrew word often translated as "watchman" or "sentry" is "צָפָה" (tsaphah), which means to look out or keep watch. Sentries were stationed on city walls or towers to observe and report any approaching threats. One of the most notable references to sentries is found in the book of Ezekiel. God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for the house of Israel, emphasizing the spiritual responsibility of warning the people of impending judgment. Ezekiel 3:17 states, "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." Similarly, in Isaiah 21:6 , the prophet is instructed, "For this is what the Lord says to me: 'Go, post a lookout and have him report what he sees.'" This highlights the role of a sentry as one who must remain vigilant and attentive to the messages from God, ready to convey them to the people. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not frequently use the term "sentry," the concept of spiritual vigilance is prevalent. Believers are often exhorted to remain watchful and alert, akin to the duties of a sentry. Jesus Himself emphasizes the importance of watchfulness in the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) and in His admonition to "keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13). The Apostle Paul also uses the imagery of a sentry in his letters. In 1 Thessalonians 5:6 , he writes, "So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober." This call to spiritual alertness reflects the sentry's duty to remain vigilant against spiritual complacency and moral decay. Symbolic and Spiritual Implications The role of a sentry in the Bible extends beyond physical protection to encompass spiritual and moral dimensions. Sentries symbolize the need for constant vigilance in one's spiritual life, guarding against sin and temptation. They also represent the responsibility of leaders and believers to warn others of spiritual dangers and to guide them toward righteousness. In a broader sense, the sentry's role is a reminder of the Christian duty to be watchful in prayer and steadfast in faith. As sentries were essential for the safety of ancient cities, so too is spiritual vigilance crucial for the health and well-being of the Christian community. Conclusion The biblical concept of a sentry serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual watchfulness and responsibility. Whether in the context of ancient Israel or the teachings of the New Testament, the sentry's role underscores the importance of vigilance, both in guarding against physical threats and in maintaining spiritual integrity. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A soldier placed on guard; a sentinel.2. (n.) Guard; watch, as by a sentinel. Greek 2892. koustodia -- a guard ... guard, sentry. Of Latin origin; "custody", ie A Roman sentry -- watch. (koustodian) -- 1 Occurrence. (koustodias) -- 2 Occurrences. 2891, 2892. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2892.htm - 6k 5441. phulax -- a guard, keeper 4649. skopos -- a watchman, a mark (on which to fix the eye) Strong's Hebrew 6844. tsaphith -- a rug, carpet... Word Origin from tsaphah Definition a rug, carpet NASB Word Usage cloth (1). watchtower. From tsaphah; a sentry -- watchtower. see HEBREW tsaphah. 6843, 6844 ... /hebrew/6844.htm - 6k 4931. mishmereth -- a guard, watch, charge, function Library The Faithful Servant The Punishment of Atsu A Call to Prayer and Testimony The Young Titus Simeon's Swan-Song The Outbreak at Benares. Illustrations Hymn at Cock-Crow The Gods of the Different Nations Varro's Gentile Class. Their ... Waiting and Singing Thesaurus Sentry (1 Occurrence)... 1. (n.) A soldier placed on guard; a sentinel. 2. (n.) Guard; watch, as by a sentinel. Multi-Version Concordance Sentry (1 Occurrence). ... /s/sentry.htm - 6k Prisoner (87 Occurrences) Prison (131 Occurrences) Watch (203 Occurrences) Relief (32 Occurrences) Patrol (2 Occurrences) Box (13 Occurrences) Challenge (6 Occurrences) Senuah (1 Occurrence) Sentries (4 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about diligence? | GotQuestions.orgSentry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sentry (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 37:13 Subtopics Related Terms |
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