Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of lodging was integral to the culture and daily life of the people. Lodging, or staying overnight in a place, is mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures, often reflecting themes of hospitality, divine provision, and the transient nature of human life.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, lodging is frequently associated with hospitality, a highly valued virtue in ancient Near Eastern culture. For instance, in Genesis 19:2, Lot invites the two angels to lodge in his house in Sodom, saying, "Here now, my lords, please turn aside into your servant’s house. Wash your feet and spend the night; then you can rise early and go on your way." This act of hospitality is contrasted with the inhospitable and wicked behavior of the men of Sodom. The concept of lodging also appears in the context of travel and pilgrimage. In Genesis 28:11, Jacob, on his journey to Haran, "came to a certain place and spent the night there because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones from that place, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep." This passage highlights the transient nature of lodging during travel, as well as the divine encounter Jacob experiences in his dream. New Testament Context In the New Testament, lodging continues to be an important aspect of hospitality and community life. Jesus Himself often relied on the hospitality of others during His ministry. In Luke 9:58, Jesus remarks, "Foxes have dens and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head," indicating His itinerant lifestyle and the reliance on the kindness of others for lodging. The early Christian community also emphasized the importance of hospitality. In Acts 16:15, Lydia, after being baptized, invites Paul and his companions to lodge at her home, saying, "If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house." This act of lodging reflects the communal and supportive nature of the early Church. Spiritual Significance Lodging in the Bible often carries a deeper spiritual significance. It can symbolize the temporary nature of earthly life and the believer's journey toward a heavenly home. Hebrews 11:9-10 speaks of Abraham, who "by faith dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God." Furthermore, lodging can represent the believer's relationship with God. In Revelation 3:20, Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me." This imagery of inviting Christ to lodge within one's heart underscores the intimate fellowship between the believer and the Savior. Conclusion The biblical concept of lodging encompasses themes of hospitality, divine provision, and the transient nature of life. It serves as a reminder of the importance of welcoming others, the reliance on God's provision, and the ultimate hope of a permanent dwelling with God. Smith's Bible Dictionary To LodgeThis word, with one exception only, has, at least in the narrative portions of the Bible, almost invariably the force of "passing the night." Greek 835. aulizomai -- to lodge in the open, to lodge ... to lodge in the open, to lodge. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: aulizomai Phonetic Spelling: (ow-lid'-zom-ahee) Short Definition: I lodge, pass the night ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/835.htm - 6k 3579. xenizo -- to receive as a guest, to surprise 2647. kataluo -- to destroy, overthrow 3580. xenodocheo -- to entertain strangers 2681. kataskenoo -- to pitch one's tent, encamp, dwell 3921. pareisduo -- to settle in alongside 2646. kataluma -- a lodging place Strong's Hebrew 4412. melunah -- a lodge, hut... 4411, 4412. melunah. 4413 . a lodge, hut. Transliteration: melunah Phonetic Spelling: (mel-oo-naw') Short Definition: shack. ... cottage, lodge. ... /hebrew/4412.htm - 6k 3885a. lun -- to lodge, pass the night, abide 3885. luwn -- to lodge, pass the night, abide 7901. shakab -- to lie down 7725. shub -- to turn back, return 956. buth -- pass the night 4411. malon -- a lodging place, inn, khan Library Come, My Beloved, Let us Go Forth into the Field; Let us Lodge in ... The Ascent of the Body The Recall to Religion in the Hymns of Charles Wesley The "Demonstrations" of Aphrahat. The Story of Rebekah. The Mustard Seed HymnConcerning Our Lord and John Wesley's Wife Ill Fourteenth Chapter Disestablishment Resources To: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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