Topical Encyclopedia A sheepfold, in biblical terms, refers to an enclosure or pen where sheep are kept, providing them with protection and security. The concept of the sheepfold is rich with symbolism and is frequently used in the Bible to convey spiritual truths about God's care for His people, the relationship between the shepherd and the sheep, and the community of believers.Old Testament Context In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, sheepfolds were essential for the protection of sheep from predators and thieves. These enclosures were typically constructed with stone walls or thorny hedges and often had a single entrance guarded by a shepherd. The imagery of the sheepfold is used in the Old Testament to describe God's protective care over Israel. For instance, in Numbers 32:16, the tribes of Reuben and Gad request permission to build sheepfolds for their livestock as they settle in the land east of the Jordan River: "Then they approached Moses and said, 'We want to build sheepfolds here for our livestock and cities for our little ones.'" New Testament Significance The New Testament expands on the metaphor of the sheepfold, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. In John 10:1-16, Jesus uses the imagery of the sheepfold to describe His relationship with His followers. He declares Himself to be the "door of the sheep" (John 10:7), emphasizing that He is the legitimate and sole means of entry into the fold, which represents the community of believers. Jesus contrasts Himself with thieves and robbers who seek to harm the sheep, underscoring His role as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). The sheepfold metaphor in this passage highlights several key aspects of the Christian faith: 1. Security and Protection: Just as a sheepfold provides safety for sheep, Jesus offers spiritual security and protection to His followers. Believers are assured of His constant care and vigilance. 2. Community and Belonging: The sheepfold represents the Church, the body of Christ, where believers find fellowship and a sense of belonging. It is a place where they are nurtured and guided by the Good Shepherd. 3. Guidance and Leadership: Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, leads His sheep, calling them by name and guiding them to pasture. This reflects His intimate knowledge of and personal relationship with each believer. 4. Exclusivity of Christ: The imagery of Jesus as the door emphasizes the exclusivity of salvation through Him. Entry into the sheepfold is only possible through Christ, affirming the foundational Christian belief in Jesus as the only way to the Father (John 14:6). Symbolism in Christian Theology The sheepfold continues to be a powerful symbol in Christian theology, representing the Church as a place of refuge and spiritual nourishment. It serves as a reminder of the pastoral care that Jesus provides and the unity and fellowship that believers share within the body of Christ. The imagery of the sheepfold also calls Christians to recognize their dependence on the Good Shepherd and to follow His voice amidst the distractions and dangers of the world. In summary, the concept of the sheepfold in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol that conveys themes of protection, community, guidance, and the unique role of Jesus as the Shepherd and Savior of His people. Strong's Hebrew 1448. gederah -- a wall... Word Origin from gadar Definition a wall NASB Word Usage folds (1), Gederah (1), sheepfolds (2), sheepfolds* (2), wall (1), walls (3). hedge, wall. ... /hebrew/1448.htm - 6k 8240a. shephattayim -- perhaps fireplaces, ash heaps 4942. mishpethayim -- perhaps fireplaces, ash heaps 4356. miklaah -- an enclosure, fold 723a. urvah -- a manger, crib 6629. tson -- small cattle, sheep and goats, flock Library The Good Shepherd. Recreant Reuben Demonstration x. --Of Pastors. The Call of David. The Image of Self. The Kingdom of all Israel. The Gospel. Andromeda Deborah's Song The Shepherd Boy of Bethlehem. Thesaurus Sheepfolds (9 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Sheepfolds (9 Occurrences). Genesis 49:14 Issachar is a strong ass, Couching down between the sheepfolds: (ASV NAS RSV). ... /s/sheepfolds.htm - 8k Folds (18 Occurrences) Pens (8 Occurrences) Pot (46 Occurrences) Sheep-folds (4 Occurrences) Sheep (413 Occurrences) Large-boned (1 Occurrence) Watercourses (14 Occurrences) Whistling (4 Occurrences) Inn (7 Occurrences) Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sheepfolds (9 Occurrences)Genesis 49:14 Numbers 32:16 Numbers 32:24 Numbers 32:36 Judges 5:16 1 Samuel 24:3 2 Chronicles 32:28 Psalms 68:13 Psalms 78:70 Subtopics Related Terms |