Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the architecture of houses often included windows that opened onto the street. These windows served various purposes, including ventilation, light, and the ability to observe street activities. However, they also posed certain dangers, particularly when situated at a significant height.Biblical References: One of the most notable references to high and dangerous street windows is found in the account of Eutychus in the Book of Acts. In Acts 20:9 , it is recorded: "And a certain young man named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, was overcome by deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. Overcome by sleep, he fell down from the third account and was picked up dead." This incident highlights the peril associated with high windows, especially during gatherings where individuals might be inattentive or fatigued. Architectural Context: The design of ancient Near Eastern houses often included upper rooms or chambers, which were accessed by external staircases. These upper rooms were typically used for various purposes, including storage, sleeping, and gatherings. Windows in these upper rooms were essential for ventilation and light, given the lack of modern amenities. However, the absence of safety features such as railings or shutters made them hazardous, particularly for children and those who might be inattentive. Cultural and Symbolic Significance: Windows in biblical literature can also carry symbolic meanings. They are often seen as points of transition or connection between the inside and outside worlds. In the account of Rahab, the window becomes a means of salvation. Joshua 2:15 states, "Then she let them down by a rope through the window, for her house was in the wall; she lived in the wall." Here, the window serves as a conduit for escape and deliverance, contrasting with the danger it posed in the account of Eutychus. Moral and Spiritual Lessons: From a moral and spiritual perspective, the account of Eutychus serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of spiritual lethargy and inattentiveness. Just as Eutychus physically fell from a high window, believers are warned against spiritual complacency, which can lead to a fall from grace. The Apostle Paul's response, however, also illustrates the power of divine intervention and restoration, as Eutychus was revived through Paul's embrace and prayer (Acts 20:10-12). Practical Considerations: In practical terms, the presence of high and dangerous windows in biblical narratives underscores the importance of vigilance and care in both physical and spiritual matters. The architectural features of ancient homes remind modern readers of the need for safety and awareness in their own environments, as well as the spiritual vigilance required to avoid pitfalls in their faith journey. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 1:2And Ahaziah fell down through a lattice in his upper chamber that was in Samaria, and was sick: and he sent messengers, and said to them, Go, inquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 9:30,33 Acts 20:9 Library The Cause and Cure of Earthquakes Jewish Homes The Tabernacle of the Most High Journey to Evora Moravians and Methodists, 1735-1742. The Labours of John Cennick, 1739-1755. What was Heard in the Basilica of Peace The Pilgrim Band, 1736-1743. Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. From 1787 to 1791 Inclusive Resources What is a house blessing? Is a house blessing biblical? | GotQuestions.orgIs a house dedication a biblical concept? | GotQuestions.org How could the laws of God be written on doorframes, gates, and foreheads? | GotQuestions.org Houses: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Houses in Cities, Built in Streets Houses of Brick or Clay: Easily Broken Through Houses of Brick or Clay: Often Swept Away by Torrents Houses of Brick or Clay: Plastered Houses of Criminals, Desolated Houses: (Building of) of Great Prosperity Houses: (Built and not Inhabited) of Calamity Houses: (Insecurity of) of Earthly Trust Houses: (On a Rock) the Hope of Saints Houses: (On Sand) the Delusive Hope of Hypocrites Houses: (To Inhabit Those, Built by Others) Abundant Feelings Houses: Accessible from the Outside Houses: Admission To, Gained by Knocking at the Door Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Ceiled and Painted Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Hung With Rich Tapestries Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Inlaid With Ivory Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Large and Airy Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Warmed With Fires Houses: Built of Hewn or Cut Stone Houses: Built of Stone and Wood Houses: Custom of Fastening Nails, in Walls of, Alluded To Houses: Deep and Solid Foundations Required For Houses: Desolation of, Threatened As a Punishment Houses: Divided Into Apartments Houses: Doors of, How Fastened Houses: Doors of, Low and Small for Safety Houses: Entered by a Gate or Door Houses: had often Detached Apartments for Secrecy and for Strangers Houses: had often Several Stories Houses: Law Respecting the Sale of Houses: Often Broken Down to Repair City Walls Before Sieges Houses: Often Built on City Walls Houses: Serpents often Lodged in Walls of Houses: Sometimes Built Without Foundation Houses: Street Windows of, High and Dangerous Houses: The Courts of, Large and Used As Apartments Houses: The Flat Roofs of had often Booths on Them Houses: The Flat Roofs of had often Idolatrous Altars on Them Houses: The Flat Roofs of Often Covered With Week Grass Houses: The Flat Roofs of Resorted to in Grief Houses: The Flat Roofs of Surrounded With Battlements Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Devotion Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Drying Flax Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Exercise Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Making Proclamations Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Secret Conference Houses: Upper Apartments of, the Best, and Used for Entertainments Houses: when Finished Were Usually Dedicated Related Terms |
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