Bible Dictionary
EARTH, VAULT, OF THE
The vault of the earth refers to a firmly founded structure, usually understood as the arched heavens above the earth. The expression emphasizes stability more than precise shape.
Definition
The vault of the earth is a firmly founded dome or arch. The expression may refer either to the earth itself or, as usually understood, to the heavens arched above the earth. Its main emphasis is the strength and stability of the structure rather than its exact shape.
Biblical Usage
Amos speaks of God founding His vault upon the earth. The image presents a structure firmly bound together and established.
Historical Background
The interpretation of the Hebrew term is uncertain between an earthly structure and the arched heavens. In either case, the term emphasizes something securely joined and stable.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>volt:</p><p>In one passage God is said to have "founded his vault ('aghuddah) upon the earth" (Am 9:6). It is not quite certain whether this dome or vault refers to the earth itself, or to the heavens arched above it.</p><p>The latter is the usual interpretation, but in either case the reference is rather to the strength of the structure than to its form; the word implying something that is firmly bound together and hence, an arch or dome because of its stability.</p><p>See also ASTRONOMY, sec. III, 2.</p>