Topical Encyclopedia
In biblical literature, the term "ledges" refers to natural or man-made projections or shelves, often found in the context of architecture or geography. These structures can serve various purposes, such as providing support, acting as a boundary, or offering a place of refuge. The concept of ledges is not frequently mentioned in the Bible, but when it is, it often carries symbolic or practical significance.
Biblical References and Symbolism1.
Architectural Significance: In the construction of the Temple, ledges were part of the intricate design and craftsmanship. The detailed descriptions of Solomon's Temple in 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles highlight the importance of precise architectural elements, which may have included ledges as part of the structural or decorative features. Although the term "ledges" is not explicitly used in these passages, the concept is inherent in the detailed craftsmanship described.
2.
Geographical Context: Ledges in a geographical sense can be seen as natural formations that provide shelter or a vantage point. In the rugged terrain of the biblical lands, ledges could serve as places of refuge or strategic advantage. For example, David often sought refuge in the wilderness, where natural formations like ledges would have offered protection from his enemies (
1 Samuel 23:14).
3.
Symbolic Meaning: Ledges can symbolize stability and security. In a spiritual sense, they may represent the firm foundation that believers find in their faith. The imagery of God as a rock or fortress, as seen in passages like
Psalm 18:2, can be associated with the idea of a ledge providing safety and support.
4.
Practical Use: In ancient times, ledges could have been used for various practical purposes, such as storing goods or as part of agricultural practices. The terraces and ledges carved into hillsides for farming are an example of how these structures were utilized to maximize arable land in a challenging environment.
Theological ImplicationsFrom a theological perspective, the concept of ledges can be seen as a metaphor for God's provision and protection. Just as a physical ledge offers a place of safety and support, so too does God provide a spiritual foundation for His people. This is reflected in the assurance found in scriptures that speak of God's unwavering support and refuge.
Related Biblical Themes·
Refuge and Protection: The theme of God as a refuge is prevalent throughout the Bible. Ledges, as places of safety, parallel the spiritual refuge found in God.
Psalm 46:1 states, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble."
·
Foundation and Stability: The imagery of a firm foundation is central to biblical teaching. Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders in
Matthew 7:24-27 emphasizes the importance of building one's life on a solid foundation, akin to the stability a ledge might provide.
·
Divine Craftsmanship: The intricate design of the Temple and other biblical structures reflects God's attention to detail and order. Ledges, as part of these designs, underscore the beauty and precision of divine craftsmanship.
In summary, while the term "ledges" may not frequently appear in the biblical text, the concept is woven into the broader tapestry of biblical themes, symbolizing refuge, stability, and divine provision.
Strong's Hebrew
5357. naqiq -- cleft (of a rock)... clefts. Word Origin from an unused word Definition cleft (of a rock) NASB
Word Usage clefts (1), crevice (1),
ledges (1). hole. From
...Library
ChristLedges with Zaccheus. (Luke, xix. , 2, Seq. )
... CHAPTER XVII. CHRIST'S LAST PASSOVER JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM. Section 237. Christ
Ledges with Zaccheus. (Luke, xix., 2, seq.). The healing...
Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... offered in sacrifice. These were carefully decorated with lions, oxen,
and cherubim on the borders of theledges. They stood upon...
Hymns of the Holy Eastern Church
... elbows during the long service; and in a church which the writer visited some years
ago in Constantinople, there were in those stalls narrowledges upon which...
Through the Red Sea
... Pools, lighted by the ray, glowed like sheets of gold, darkling here and there with
shadow; longledges of rock, bearded with deep-water growth, sparkled...
To Olympias. Having Risen from the Very Gates of Death I Address...
... for the contest, and whilst the sea is thus raging round you, and the billows are
rising to a crest, and crags and reefs, and rockyledges and fierce monsters...
I must not Go on Describing what Cannot be Described...
... down a good way; then, opening another little door, led him out upon a narrow gallery
that ran all round the central part of the church, on theledges of the...
The Northern Mountains
... brook which he ever saw in Devonshire or Yorkshire, Ireland or Scotland;
crystal-clear, bedded with gray pebbles, broken into rapids by rock-ledges or great...
To the Rev. Andrew Brandram
... We were now ascending, for the road was over one of the extremeledges of those
frontier hills which I have before so often mentioned; but the aspect of heaven...
The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea
... was carried back and placed near to one of the narrow ends of the base, so that
the back elevation of the temple rose abruptly in steep narrowledges above the...
Andromeda
... Gilding the soft round bosoms of wood, and the downs of the coastland; Gilding the
weeds at her feet, and the foam-laced teeth of theledges, Showing the...
Thesaurus
Ledges (7 Occurrences)...Ledges (7 Occurrences).
... 1 Kings 7:28 The work of the bases was on this manner: they
had panels; and there were panels between the
ledges; (WEB KJV ASV WBS).
...Uprights (20 Occurrences)
... BBE). 1 Kings 7:28 The work of the bases was on this manner: they had panels;
and there were panels between theledges; (See NIV). 1...
Panels (10 Occurrences)
... Panels (10 Occurrences). 1 Kings 7:28 The work of the bases was on this manner:
they had panels; and there were panels between theledges; (WEB ASV DBY RSV NIV)...
Lions (50 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Wreaths (9 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Pedestal (4 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Bulls (68 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Below (52 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Hammered (22 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Beneath (73 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:29 and on the panels that were between theledges were lions, oxen, and
cherubim; and on theledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions...
Resources
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