Topical Encyclopedia
The Fountain Gate is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Nehemiah. It is one of the gates of Jerusalem that Nehemiah rebuilt during the restoration of the city's walls after the Babylonian exile. The gate holds both historical and symbolic importance within the biblical narrative.
Biblical References:The primary reference to the Fountain Gate is found in
Nehemiah 3:15: "Shallun son of Col-Hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it, roofed it, set up its doors, bolts, and bars, and repaired the wall of the Pool of Shelah at the king’s garden, as far as the stairs that descend from the City of David."
Additionally,
Nehemiah 12:37 mentions the Fountain Gate in the context of the dedication of the wall: "At the Fountain Gate they climbed the steps of the City of David on the ascent to the wall and continued above the house of David to the Water Gate on the east."
Historical Context:The Fountain Gate was located on the eastern side of Jerusalem, near the Pool of Siloam and the king's garden. Its proximity to these water sources suggests its importance for the city's water supply and daily life. The gate's name likely derives from its association with these water features, emphasizing its role in providing access to essential resources.
During Nehemiah's time, the rebuilding of the Fountain Gate was part of a larger effort to restore Jerusalem's defenses and infrastructure. The work was carried out by various groups and individuals, each responsible for different sections of the wall and its gates. The successful completion of this project was a testament to the unity and determination of the Jewish people under Nehemiah's leadership.
Symbolic Significance:In a broader theological context, the Fountain Gate can be seen as a symbol of spiritual renewal and cleansing. Water in the Bible often represents purification and life, and the restoration of the Fountain Gate may symbolize the spiritual revival of the Jewish community as they returned to their homeland and recommitted themselves to God's covenant.
The rebuilding of the gate also reflects themes of redemption and restoration, central to the narrative of Nehemiah. Just as the physical gate was restored, so too were the people of Israel being restored to their identity and purpose as God's chosen people.
Theological Insights:From a theological perspective, the Fountain Gate serves as a reminder of God's provision and faithfulness. The successful rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, including the Fountain Gate, was seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to His people. It underscores the importance of obedience, communal effort, and reliance on divine guidance in overcoming challenges and achieving restoration.
The Fountain Gate, therefore, is not merely a historical landmark but a testament to the enduring themes of faith, renewal, and divine providence that permeate the biblical narrative.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
Fountain GateFOUNTAIN GATE
SeeJERUSALEM.
Strong's Hebrew
4161. motsa -- a place or act of going forth, issue, export...... or (the place) an exit; hence, a source or product; specifically, dawn, the rising
of the sun (the East), exportation, utterance, a
gate, a
fountain, a mine, a
...Library
The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3
... thence, "The Esquiline, or Dung-gate," verse 14. And, 3. "TheFountain-gate,"
verse 15; not that of Siloam, nor of Draco; but another....
Overcoming Great Difficulties
... At theFountain Gate they went straight up the stairs of the City of David by the
ascent along the wall above the House of David to the WaterGate on the east...
Nehemiah's Answer to a Call for Help
... fire. Then I went on to theFountain Gate and to the King's Pool, but there
was no place for the animal on which I rode to pass....
In the Last, the Great Day of the Feast'
... Here was the so-calledFountain-Gate,' and still within the City-wall the
Pool of Siloam,' the overflow of which fed a lower pool....
Concerning the Gates and Chambers Lying on the South Side of the...
... was brought in through thisgate; or because the water-course, conveyed into the
Temple from thefountain Etam, went along through thisgate into the chamber...
What the Scriptures Principally Teach: the Ruin and Recovery of...
... These "sound words" can profit us nothing, unless we hold them fast with
faith and love. Faith is like thefountain-gate. Streams...
Jesus Heals on the Sabbath Day and Defends his Act.
... middle or northern portion of the temple area, and too far north for the Virgin's
fountain to be described as near it, unless John's sheepgate differs from...
A Description of Some Parts of Ancient Jerusalem.
... and from whence the city walls, the highest parts of Mount Sion, and some towers
could be seen, as well as thegate of Bethlehem and thefountain of Gihon....
The Good Shepherd
... through thegate of death, he would lead them out again by thegate of resurrection...
For Christ is God, and God is love; the root andfountain of all love which...
The Description of Jerusalem.
... and extended through a place called "Bethso," to thegate of the Essens; and after
that it went southward, having its bending above thefountain Siloam, where...
Resources
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