The term "East Side" or "Toward the Sunrise" holds significant symbolic and geographical importance in the biblical narrative. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the east was often associated with beginnings, origins, and divine encounters. The Hebrew word for east, "qedem," also conveys the idea of antiquity and precedence.

Geographical Significance:

In the Bible, the east is frequently mentioned in relation to the geography of the Promised Land and the movements of biblical figures. For instance, when God called Abraham, He directed him from Ur of the Chaldeans, which is east of Canaan, to the land He promised to show him (Genesis 12:1). The east side of the Jordan River was also significant as the territory where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh settled (Numbers 32:33).

The east is also the direction from which the Israelites entered the Promised Land. After wandering in the wilderness, they crossed the Jordan River from the east, moving westward into Canaan (Joshua 3:1-17). This movement from east to west symbolized entering into God's promises and blessings.

Symbolic Meaning:

The east is often associated with the presence and glory of God. In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, the entrance faced east, symbolizing the anticipation of God's presence and the coming of His light. Ezekiel's vision of the new Temple also emphasizes the east, as the glory of the Lord enters the Temple from the east (Ezekiel 43:1-4).

The east is also linked to the coming of the Messiah. In Matthew 24:27, Jesus states, "For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man" . This imagery underscores the sudden and unmistakable nature of Christ's return.

Cultural and Theological Context:

In the ancient world, the east was often associated with wisdom and enlightenment. The Magi, who came from the east to worship the newborn Jesus, are a testament to this association (Matthew 2:1-2). Their journey symbolizes the recognition of Christ's kingship and the fulfillment of prophecy.

Theologically, the east represents both hope and judgment. In Genesis 3:24, after the fall, God placed cherubim and a flaming sword "east of the Garden of Eden" to guard the way to the tree of life, signifying separation from God's presence due to sin. Yet, the east also holds the promise of restoration and new beginnings, as seen in the return from exile and the anticipation of the Messiah.

Conclusion:

The concept of the east in the Bible is rich with meaning, encompassing themes of divine presence, judgment, and redemption. It serves as a geographical marker and a symbol of God's unfolding plan for humanity, pointing to both the origins of creation and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.