Topical Encyclopedia The term "Several House" is not directly mentioned in the Bible; however, it can be understood in the context of biblical references to individual dwellings or specific houses that hold particular significance. In biblical times, houses were not only places of residence but also centers of family life, worship, and community gatherings. The concept of a "several house" can be interpreted as a distinct or separate dwelling, often associated with particular families or individuals.Biblical Context and Significance 1. Family and Lineage: In the Bible, houses often represent family lineage and heritage. For example, the "house of David" refers to the royal lineage of King David, from which Jesus Christ is descended. This is significant in understanding the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies. The Bible states, "The LORD has sworn an oath to David, a promise He will not revoke: 'One of your descendants I will place on your throne'" (Psalm 132:11). 2. Places of Worship and Prayer: Houses in biblical times also served as places of worship and prayer. The early Christian church often met in homes for fellowship and breaking of bread. Acts 2:46 notes, "With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house, sharing their meals with gladness and sincerity of heart." 3. Divine Encounters: Several houses in the Bible are sites of divine encounters or significant events. For instance, the house of Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is where Peter received a vision that led to the inclusion of Gentiles in the early Christian church (Acts 10). The Bible records, "While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard his message" (Acts 10:44). 4. Protection and Refuge: Houses also symbolize protection and refuge. The Passover in Exodus 12 describes how the Israelites were instructed to mark their doorposts with the blood of a lamb so that the angel of death would pass over their homes. "The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you" (Exodus 12:13). 5. Judgment and Consequence: Conversely, houses can also be places of judgment. The destruction of Jericho included the collapse of its walls and houses, except for the house of Rahab, who was spared for her faith and assistance to the Israelite spies (Joshua 6). "But Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, with her family and all who belonged to her, because she had hidden the spies Joshua had sent to Jericho" (Joshua 6:25). Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Israel, houses were typically constructed with stone or mud-brick and often included a courtyard. They were multi-functional, serving as living quarters, storage, and places for business transactions. The architecture and layout of a house could reflect the social status and wealth of its inhabitants. The concept of a "several house" may also relate to the division of land and property among the tribes of Israel, as seen in the allocation of the Promised Land. Each tribe and family received a portion, emphasizing the importance of inheritance and stewardship. Spiritual Implications Theologically, the idea of a house extends beyond physical structures to encompass spiritual households. Believers are often referred to as the "household of God," emphasizing unity and belonging within the body of Christ. Ephesians 2:19 states, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." In summary, while the term "Several House" is not explicitly found in the Bible, the concept of individual and significant houses is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting themes of family, worship, divine encounter, protection, and spiritual community. Library Letter xxxi (AD 1132) to the Abbot of a Certain Monastery at York ... Meditation iii. Arrangements for Eating the Paschal Lamb. Several Other Things Turned against the Same Mathematicians. He Proves by Several Examples that the Greeks Drew from the Sacred ... How the vine of the Priest of Rieti, Whose House St Francis ... The Life of Mr. Thomas Hog. The "Little Knife" Insurrection Of the Harmony Characterizing the Accounts which These Evangelists ... Of what Took Place in the Piece of Ground or Garden to which they ... Apparitions on Occasion of the Death of Jesus. Resources How many prophets are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society? | GotQuestions.org What is the purpose of the warning passages in Scripture? | GotQuestions.org Several: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |