The Gate of Ephraim is mentioned in the context of the ancient city of Jerusalem, serving as one of its significant entry points. This gate is referenced in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 2 Kings and Nehemiah. It is traditionally understood to be located on the northern side of Jerusalem, leading towards the territory of the tribe of Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel.

In 2 Kings 14:13, the Gate of Ephraim is mentioned during the reign of King Amaziah of Judah. After Amaziah's defeat by Jehoash, king of Israel, Jehoash broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Gate of Ephraim to the Corner Gate, a distance of about four hundred cubits. This event highlights the strategic importance of the gate as a point of vulnerability in the city's defenses.

The Gate of Ephraim is also noted in Nehemiah 12:39, where it is part of the route taken by the procession during the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. The passage states: "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 indicates the gate's continued significance in the post-exilic period, serving as a landmark in the city's topography.

The Gate of Ephraim symbolizes the connection between Jerusalem and the northern tribes, particularly Ephraim, and serves as a reminder of the city's historical and spiritual heritage. Its mention in the context of both destruction and restoration underscores the themes of judgment and redemption that run throughout the biblical narrative.

Corner Gate

The Corner Gate is another significant gate of ancient Jerusalem, mentioned alongside the Gate of Ephraim in the biblical narrative. It is referenced in 2 Kings 14:13 and 2 Chronicles 25:23, where it marks the extent of the damage inflicted by Jehoash, king of Israel, on the walls of Jerusalem during his conflict with King Amaziah of Judah. The text in 2 Kings 14:13 states: "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."

The Corner Gate is also mentioned in 2 Chronicles 26:9, during the reign of King Uzziah of Judah, who fortified Jerusalem by building towers at the Corner Gate, the Valley Gate, and at the angle of the wall. This indicates the strategic importance of the Corner Gate as a defensive structure, crucial for the protection of the city.

In Jeremiah 31:38, the Corner Gate is part of a prophetic vision of the future expansion and restoration of Jerusalem: "The days are coming, declares the LORD, when this city will be rebuilt for Me, from the Tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate." This prophecy highlights the Corner Gate as a symbol of hope and renewal, reflecting God's promise to restore and bless His people.

The Corner Gate, like the Gate of Ephraim, serves as a testament to Jerusalem's historical significance and its role as a focal point in the biblical narrative. Its repeated mention in contexts of both conflict and restoration underscores the enduring themes of divine judgment and redemption.