The term "Second Quarter" appears in the context of ancient Jerusalem, specifically in the Old Testament. It refers to a district or section of the city that is mentioned in the prophetic and historical narratives of the Bible. The Second Quarter is significant in understanding the geographical and social layout of Jerusalem during biblical times.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 22:14 : "So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second Quarter, and they spoke with her."

2. Zephaniah 1:10 : "On that day," declares the LORD, "a cry will go up from the Fish Gate, a wail from the Second Quarter, and a loud crash from the hills."

Historical and Geographical Context:

The Second Quarter, also known as the "Mishneh" in Hebrew, is believed to have been an expansion of the city of Jerusalem. It is thought to have been located to the north of the original city of David, possibly encompassing areas that were developed as the city grew. This expansion likely occurred during the reigns of the kings of Judah, as Jerusalem became more populous and required additional space for its inhabitants.

The mention of the Second Quarter in 2 Kings 22:14 is particularly notable because it is the residence of Huldah the prophetess. This indicates that the area was not only a residential district but also a place where significant religious and prophetic activities took place. Huldah's role in confirming the authenticity of the Book of the Law found in the temple underscores the spiritual importance of this area.

In Zephaniah 1:10, the Second Quarter is mentioned in a prophecy concerning the coming judgment on Jerusalem. The wailing from the Second Quarter signifies the distress and calamity that would befall the city due to its disobedience and idolatry. This reference highlights the Second Quarter as a recognizable and significant part of the city, known to the inhabitants and used as a point of reference in prophetic declarations.

Archaeological Insights:

While the exact boundaries and features of the Second Quarter are not definitively known, archaeological excavations in Jerusalem have provided insights into the city's expansion during the First Temple period. Discoveries of residential structures, fortifications, and artifacts from this era suggest a thriving urban environment that aligns with the biblical descriptions of a growing and prosperous Jerusalem.

Theological Significance:

The Second Quarter serves as a reminder of Jerusalem's historical and spiritual heritage. It reflects the city's growth and the dynamic nature of its society, which included prophets, priests, and ordinary citizens. The references to the Second Quarter in the Bible also emphasize the themes of prophecy, judgment, and the call to return to covenant faithfulness. These themes resonate throughout the biblical narrative, underscoring the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of turning away from His ways.