Bible Dictionary
Wall
Walls enclosed and protected cities, houses, and sacred buildings. They represented strength and security, while Scripture also uses walls figuratively for divine protection and the final glory of the holy city.
Definition
A wall is a substantial structure enclosing, separating, or protecting a city, house, temple, or other place. Biblical walls were commonly thick and strong, especially around fortified cities. The word may also describe a boundary or protective barrier.
Biblical Usage
Walls distinguished fortified cities from unwalled villages and are associated with defense and security. Scripture also uses the image figuratively for safety and protection, and the holy city is described with a wall having foundations and gates.
Historical Background
Walls among the Israelites were built of stone, and some temple stones were of great size. Their construction belonged to the broader practices of ancient houses, cities, and fortifications.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Cities were surrounded by walls, as distinguished from “unwalled villages” (Ezek. 38:11; Lev. 25:29-34). They were made thick and strong (Num. 13:28; Deut. 3:5). Among the Jews walls were built of stone, some of those in the temple being of great size (1 Kings 6:7; 7:9-12; 20:30; Mark 13:1, 2). The term is used metaphorically of security and safety (Isa. 26:1; 60:18; Rev. 21:12-20). (See FENCE.)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>wol.</p><p>See ARCHITECTURE; CITY; FORTIFICATION; HOUSE; JERUSALEM; VILLAGE.</p>