Cities
Summary
Fortified settlements mentioned throughout Scripture, from the earliest city built by Cain to the various types of cities in ancient Israel including royal, treasure, and chariot cities.
☩Ancient Cities
The earliest notice of city-building in Scripture is of Enoch by Cain in the land of his exile. After the confusion of tongues, Nimrod founded Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh in Shinar, while Asshur built Nineveh, Rehoboth-by-the-river, Calah, and Resen. Even before Abraham, there were cities in Egypt.
☩Types of Cities
Scripture mentions several types of cities: fenced cities fortified with high walls, royal cities serving as capitals, treasure cities for storing goods, chariot cities for military equipment, and merchant cities as commercial centers. Solomon built extensive store cities and chariot cities throughout his kingdom.
☩City Government
Cities were governed by rulers and had suburbs with designated boundaries. Town clerks served administrative functions, as seen in Ephesus where such an official calmed the mob during Paul's ministry. Gates served as places for conducting business and rendering judgment.
Related Verses408 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Cities," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 2.Edwin W. Rice, "Cities," in The People's Dictionary of the Bible (American Sunday-School Union, 1893).