Topical Encyclopedia The Sheep Gate holds significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of ancient Jerusalem. This gate is mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah and is associated with the restoration efforts led by Nehemiah upon his return from exile. The Sheep Gate is traditionally understood to be located in the northeastern part of Jerusalem's wall, near the Temple Mount, and played a crucial role in the religious life of the city.Biblical References The primary biblical reference to the Sheep Gate is found in the Book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah 3:1 states, "Then Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests set to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and installed its doors, rebuilding as far as the Tower of the Hundred and the Tower of Hananel." This passage highlights the Sheep Gate as the starting point of the rebuilding efforts of Jerusalem's walls, emphasizing its importance in the restoration of the city. The Sheep Gate is also indirectly referenced in the Gospel of John. John 5:2 mentions, "Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Hebrew is called Bethesda, and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades." This passage situates the Sheep Gate near the Pool of Bethesda, a site of healing and miracles, further underscoring its significance in the New Testament narrative. Historical and Theological Significance Historically, the Sheep Gate was named for its function related to the sacrificial system of ancient Israel. It is believed that sheep intended for temple sacrifices were brought through this gate, making it a vital part of the religious and economic life of Jerusalem. The proximity of the Sheep Gate to the Temple Mount facilitated the movement of sacrificial animals, underscoring the gate's role in the worship practices of the Israelites. Theologically, the Sheep Gate symbolizes the beginning of restoration and renewal. In Nehemiah's account, the rebuilding of the Sheep Gate by the high priest and his fellow priests signifies the prioritization of spiritual renewal and the reestablishment of proper worship. The consecration of the gate highlights the dedication of the city to God and the centrality of worship in the life of the community. Furthermore, the association of the Sheep Gate with the Pool of Bethesda in the Gospel of John adds a layer of messianic expectation and fulfillment. The healing at Bethesda, near the Sheep Gate, points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate healer and restorer, fulfilling the hopes and promises of the Old Testament. Archaeological Insights While the exact location of the Sheep Gate has been a subject of scholarly debate, archaeological excavations in Jerusalem have provided insights into the city's ancient layout. The identification of structures and gates near the northeastern part of the city wall aligns with the biblical description, offering a glimpse into the historical context of Nehemiah's time. In summary, the Sheep Gate serves as a powerful symbol of restoration, worship, and messianic hope within the biblical narrative. Its mention in both the Old and New Testaments highlights its enduring significance in the spiritual and communal life of ancient Jerusalem. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 3:1,32Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even to the tower of Meah they sanctified it, to the tower of Hananeel. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 12:39 John 5:2 Library A Description of Some Parts of Ancient Jerusalem. At the Unknown' Feast in Jerusalem, and by the Pool of Bethesda. An Ancient Nonconformist Sabbath Cure at Bethesda. In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned And ii. The Gospel According to St. John Sundry Exhortations. In the House of his Heavenly, and in the Home of his Earthly ... The Teaching of Add??us the Apostle. Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
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