Topical Encyclopedia The Gate of Ephraim is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the city of Jerusalem. It is one of the gates of the city, serving as a point of entry and exit, and holds historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative.Biblical References: 1. 2 Kings 14:13 : "Jehoash king of Israel captured Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah, at Beth-shemesh. Then Jehoash went to Jerusalem and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Gate of Ephraim to the Corner Gate, a section of four hundred cubits." This passage highlights the Gate of Ephraim as a strategic point in the defense of Jerusalem. The breach of the wall from this gate to the Corner Gate by Jehoash, king of Israel, signifies a moment of vulnerability and defeat for the city of Jerusalem under King Amaziah of Judah. 2. Nehemiah 8:16 : "So the people went out and brought back branches and made booths for themselves on their own roofs, in their courtyards, in the courts of the house of God, and in the square by the Water Gate, and in the square by the Gate of Ephraim." In this context, the Gate of Ephraim is mentioned during the time of Nehemiah, when the Israelites were celebrating the Feast of Booths. The gate serves as a landmark for the gathering of the people, indicating its continued use and importance in the post-exilic period. 3. Nehemiah 12:39 : "and over the Gate of Ephraim, the Jeshanah Gate, the Fish Gate, the Tower of Hananel, and the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Sheep Gate; and they stopped at the Gate of the Guard." This verse is part of the account of the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. The Gate of Ephraim is included in the procession route, underscoring its role in the city's infrastructure and its symbolic significance in the restoration and dedication of Jerusalem's defenses. Historical and Theological Significance: The Gate of Ephraim is named after the tribe of Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel. Its mention in various biblical accounts suggests that it was a well-known and strategically important gate in the northern part of Jerusalem's wall. The gate's association with significant events, such as military conflicts and religious celebrations, highlights its role in the life of the city. From a theological perspective, the Gate of Ephraim can be seen as a symbol of both judgment and restoration. The breach of the wall at this gate by Jehoash represents a moment of divine judgment upon Judah for its unfaithfulness. Conversely, its mention in the context of Nehemiah's reforms and the dedication of the wall signifies a period of renewal and recommitment to God's covenant. The Gate of Ephraim, therefore, serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of Israel's history, marked by periods of disobedience and repentance, destruction and rebuilding. It stands as a testament to God's enduring faithfulness and the hope of restoration for His people. Smith's Bible Dictionary Gate Of Ephraimone of the gates of the city of Jerusalem, (2 Kings 14:13; 2 Chronicles 25:23; Nehemiah 8:16; 12:39) probably at or near the position of the present "Damascus gate." Library The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3 Overcoming Great Difficulties Our Lord Subdued his Might and Constrained It, that his Living ... Death was Weeping for Her, Even for Sheol, when He Saw Her ... In Wisdom Let us Hearken to Death, O My Beloved: How He Accuses us ... Lo! Death, the King of Silence, Complains, My Brethren My Throne was Set for Me in Sheol: and one Arose that was Dead ... Glory to Him who came and Restored It! Thou Dost not Hide Thyself in Thy Bareness, O Pearl! Blessed be the Messenger that was Laden, and Came Resources What was the significance of gatekeepers in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God make salvation such a narrow path? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy in John 10:10? | GotQuestions.org Gate: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |