The Spiritual Significance of the Sheep Gate of Jerusalem. Located in the sacred city of Jerusalem, the Sheep Gate was one of the city’s most ancient entries. The gate is named so because sheep and lambs were brought through it into the city. They were brought for sacrifice at the Temple (Nehemiah 3:1, 12:39). The Sheep Gate’s importance goes beyond just physical relevance. It retains a significant spiritual symbolism. This symbolism resonates with the Christian faith.

Spiritual Relevance: The Sheep Gate and Jesus Christ

In the New Testament of the Bible, Jesus Christ is referred to as the ‘Lamb of God’ (John 1:29, 1:36). By offering Himself as a spiritual sacrifice, Jesus became the pathway to salvation. In this context, the Sheep Gate takes on an even profound symbolism. It is an allegory that symbolizes Jesus Christ. Through this, the pathway to righteousness and salvation can be attained (Hebrews 10:19-20).

The Sheep Gate: A Portrayal of Redemption

The Sheep Gate has a salient feature. It was the first gate to be repaired by the Israelites returning from Babylonian exile (Nehemiah 3:1). This point is significant in terms of spiritual symbolism. The reconstruction of the Sheep Gate can be seen as an act of atonement. It signifies spiritual renewal. This reflects the idea of redemption and salvation.

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The untouched Sheep Gate: A depiction of sanctity

The Sheep Gate has another significant point. It is the only gate of Jerusalem identified in the Bible. It was not recorded as being adorned or decorated in any way (Nehemiah 3-6). The emphasis on its plain and pure state is another spiritual significator. It echoes the purity of Jesus Christ and His sacrificial offering.

The Sheep Gate: Entrance to Healing

Next to the Sheep Gate was a pool called Bethesda. Many ill, lame, and blind people were healed there. Most notably, Jesus Christ healed people there in the Book of John (John 5:2-9). The proximity of the Sheep Gate to the Bethesda pool establishes its association with healing, both physical and spiritual. The Gate symbolizes not only a pathway to physical health but also to spiritual recuperation and rebirth in Christ.

In conclusion, the Sheep Gate, while a historical construct, carries powerful spiritual symbolism. It is a tangible representation of the Christian message of salvation, sanctity, healing, and redemption through Jesus Christ.

References:

1. The Geological Survey of Jerusalem. “The Gates of Jerusalem.” National Library of Israel, www.nli.org.il/en/maps/NNL_MAPS_JER002101.
2. The HarperCollins Study Bible. HarperCollins, 2015.