The concept of "four sides" appears in various contexts within the Bible, often symbolizing completeness, universality, or the encompassing nature of God's creation and plans. This entry explores the significance of "four sides" as it appears in biblical texts, drawing from the Berean Standard Bible for scriptural references.

1. The Tabernacle and the Temple:

The design of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem reflects the use of four sides, symbolizing order and divine perfection. The Tabernacle, as described in Exodus, was a rectangular structure with four sides, each with specific dimensions and materials, signifying God's precise instructions for worship and His presence among His people.

2. The Altar:

The altar, a central element in Israelite worship, was also constructed with four sides. In Exodus 27:1 , God commands, "You are to construct the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide; the altar is to be square, and three cubits high." The four-sided altar represents the completeness of the sacrificial system and the atonement it provided for the people of Israel.

3. The Vision of Ezekiel:

In the prophetic visions of Ezekiel, the number four and the concept of four sides are prominent. Ezekiel 1:5-6 describes the living creatures with four faces and four wings, symbolizing the universality and omnipresence of God's spirit. The four sides of the creatures' faces—man, lion, ox, and eagle—represent different aspects of creation and divine attributes.

4. The New Jerusalem:

The Book of Revelation describes the New Jerusalem as having four sides, emphasizing its perfection and the fulfillment of God's promises. Revelation 21:16 states, "The city lies foursquare, with its length the same as its width." This imagery of a city with four equal sides underscores the completeness and eternal nature of God's kingdom.

5. The Four Corners of the Earth:

The phrase "four corners of the earth" is used in Scripture to denote the entirety of the world. Isaiah 11:12 proclaims, "He will raise a banner for the nations and gather the exiles of Israel; He will collect the scattered of Judah from the four corners of the earth." This expression highlights God's sovereignty over all creation and His plan to gather His people from every part of the world.

6. Symbolism in Biblical Numerology:

In biblical numerology, the number four often signifies universality and completeness. The four sides of various structures and visions in the Bible reflect this symbolism, pointing to God's comprehensive plan for humanity and His creation. The use of four sides in biblical architecture and visions serves as a reminder of God's order, purpose, and the all-encompassing nature of His divine will.

In summary, the concept of "four sides" in the Bible is rich with symbolic meaning, representing completeness, universality, and the divine order established by God. Whether in the construction of sacred spaces, prophetic visions, or eschatological promises, the four sides serve as a testament to the fullness of God's presence and His eternal plan for His people.