The phrase "The Day it was Built" refers to a specific moment in biblical history when a significant structure or city was completed. This concept is often associated with the dedication or completion of a sacred or monumental construction, such as the Temple in Jerusalem or the walls of a city. In the biblical narrative, these events are marked by ceremonies, offerings, and divine acknowledgment.

Biblical Context

1. Solomon's Temple: One of the most notable instances of "The Day it was Built" is the completion of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. The construction of the Temple is detailed in 1 Kings 6-8 and 2 Chronicles 3-7. Solomon's Temple was a central place of worship for the Israelites and symbolized God's presence among His people. The dedication of the Temple was marked by a grand ceremony, including sacrifices and prayers. In 1 Kings 8:10-11 , it is recorded, "And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, the cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand there to minister because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD."

2. The Walls of Jerusalem: Another significant event is the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah's leadership. This event is chronicled in the Book of Nehemiah. The completion of the walls was a moment of great joy and celebration for the Israelites, as it represented the restoration and protection of their city. Nehemiah 6:15-16 states, "So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days. When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God."

Theological Significance

The completion of these structures is not merely an architectural achievement but holds deep theological significance. It represents God's faithfulness to His promises and His covenant with His people. The dedication ceremonies often included prayers of thanksgiving, acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, and a call for the people to remain faithful to God's commandments.

Symbolism and Typology

In a broader sense, "The Day it was Built" can also be seen as a typological foreshadowing of the coming of Christ and the establishment of the Church. The physical structures, such as the Temple, are seen as earthly representations of heavenly realities. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to His body as the Temple (John 2:19-21), indicating that He is the fulfillment of what the Temple symbolized. Furthermore, the Church is described as a spiritual building, with Christ as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22).

Cultural and Historical Impact

The completion of these structures had a profound impact on the cultural and religious life of the Israelites. They served as centers of worship, community gathering, and national identity. The dedication of these buildings often involved elaborate ceremonies that reinforced the communal and covenantal relationship between God and His people.

Conclusion

While the phrase "The Day it was Built" is not explicitly used in the Bible, the concept is integral to understanding the significance of sacred spaces in biblical history. These events underscore the importance of obedience, worship, and the acknowledgment of God's presence and provision in the life of His people.