The concept of "The Building with its Walls" in the Bible often symbolizes strength, protection, and divine presence. Throughout Scripture, walls are mentioned in various contexts, from the literal walls of cities and temples to metaphorical walls representing spiritual truths.

1. Walls as Protection and Security:

In ancient times, walls were crucial for the protection of cities. They provided security against invaders and were a symbol of a city's strength. The city of Jericho, for instance, was known for its formidable walls. In Joshua 6:20 , we read about the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls: "So when the rams’ horns sounded, the people shouted. And when they heard the blast of the horn, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it."

Similarly, Nehemiah's rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls after the Babylonian exile was a significant event, symbolizing the restoration of the Jewish community and their renewed covenant with God. Nehemiah 4:6 states, "So we rebuilt the wall until all of it was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work."

2. Walls as Divine Presence:

The walls of the temple in Jerusalem were not only protective but also signified the presence of God among His people. The temple was the dwelling place of God, and its walls enclosed the sacred space where the Israelites worshiped. In 1 Kings 6:5 , Solomon's construction of the temple is described: "Against the walls of the main hall and the inner sanctuary he built a structure around the building, in which there were side rooms."

The walls of the New Jerusalem, as described in Revelation, also symbolize divine presence and eternal security. Revelation 21:12 describes the city's walls: "The city had a great and high wall with twelve gates inscribed with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel."

3. Metaphorical Walls:

Walls in the Bible can also represent spiritual barriers or divisions. Ephesians 2:14 speaks of Christ breaking down the "dividing wall of hostility" between Jews and Gentiles, symbolizing the reconciliation brought through His sacrifice: "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility."

Conversely, walls can represent the protection and refuge found in God. Proverbs 18:10 states, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." Here, the imagery of a fortified structure conveys the security and safety found in God's presence.

4. Walls in Prophetic and Apocalyptic Literature:

In prophetic literature, walls often symbolize the strength or vulnerability of a nation. Isaiah 26:1 proclaims, "In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: 'We have a strong city; He sets up salvation as walls and ramparts.'" This verse highlights the protective nature of God's salvation as a wall around His people.

In the apocalyptic vision of Ezekiel, the detailed description of the temple's walls signifies the order and holiness of God's future kingdom (Ezekiel 40-42). These walls delineate sacred space and emphasize the separation between the holy and the profane.

5. Walls in Wisdom Literature:

In the wisdom literature, walls can also represent self-control and discipline. Proverbs 25:28 warns, "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who does not control his temper." This metaphor illustrates the vulnerability and chaos that result from a lack of self-discipline.

In summary, "The Building with its Walls" in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing physical protection, divine presence, spiritual truths, and moral lessons. Whether literal or metaphorical, walls in Scripture convey themes of security, separation, and sanctity, reflecting the broader narrative of God's relationship with His people.