Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "fortify" generally refers to the act of strengthening or securing a place against attack. In biblical contexts, fortification often involves the construction of walls, towers, and other defensive structures to protect cities and their inhabitants from enemy forces. The concept of fortification extends beyond physical structures to include spiritual and moral strengthening. Biblical References: 1. Physical Fortification: The Bible frequently mentions the fortification of cities as a practical measure for protection. In the Old Testament, cities like Jerusalem and Jericho are noted for their strong defenses. For example, in 2 Chronicles 32:5, King Hezekiah "strengthened himself, rebuilt all the wall that was broken, and raised towers upon it, and built another wall outside." This passage highlights the importance of physical fortifications in safeguarding the people and maintaining the integrity of the city. 2. Spiritual Fortification: Beyond physical defenses, the Bible emphasizes the need for spiritual fortification. In Ephesians 6:10-11, believers are encouraged to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This metaphorical armor represents spiritual fortification through faith, righteousness, and the Word of God. 3. Moral and Ethical Fortification: The concept of fortification also applies to moral and ethical strength. Proverbs 25:28 states, "Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." This verse underscores the idea that self-discipline and moral integrity serve as fortifications for the soul, protecting individuals from spiritual and moral decay. 4. Divine Fortification: The Bible assures believers of God's role as a divine fortress. Psalm 18:2 declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge." This imagery portrays God as the ultimate source of protection and strength, offering a spiritual fortification that surpasses any human-made defenses. Historical and Cultural Insights: In ancient times, the fortification of cities was a common practice among various civilizations, including the Israelites. The construction of walls and towers was not only a military strategy but also a symbol of a city's strength and stability. The biblical narrative often uses the imagery of fortified cities to convey messages of security, divine protection, and the consequences of moral failure. Theological Implications: Theologically, the concept of fortification in the Bible serves as a reminder of the need for both physical and spiritual preparedness. It calls believers to rely on God's strength and protection while also taking active steps to fortify their faith and moral character. The dual emphasis on divine and human responsibility reflects a holistic approach to security and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Practical Application: For contemporary believers, the biblical theme of fortification encourages a balanced approach to life. It involves building strong spiritual foundations through prayer, study of Scripture, and community fellowship, while also cultivating personal virtues such as self-control and integrity. By doing so, individuals can withstand external pressures and internal temptations, remaining steadfast in their faith and witness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To add strength to; to furnish with power to resist attack.2. (v. t.) To strengthen and secure by forts or batteries, or by surrounding with a wall or ditch or other military works; to render defensible against an attack by hostile forces. 3. (v. i.) To raise defensive works. Greek 3794. ochuroma -- a stronghold, fortress ... 3794 (from the root "fortify") -- a fortified, military stronghold; a strong-walled fortress (), used only in 2 Cor 10:4. Here 3794 ("a heavily-fortified ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3794.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 1219. batsar -- to cut off, make inaccessible, enclose... root Definition to cut off, make inaccessible, enclose NASB Word Usage cut off (1), fortified (24), fortify (2), gather (3), gathered (1), gatherer (1 ... /hebrew/1219.htm - 6k 2388. chazaq -- to be or grow firm or strong, strengthen 5800. azab -- to leave, forsake, loose 553. amets -- to be stout, strong, bold, alert 6696. tsuwr -- to confine, bind, besiege Library On Proverbs. From the Commentary of St. Hippolytus on Proverbs. Letter ii. --The Three Degrees of virtue. How a Soul in Charity Makes Progress in It. Prayerlessness in the Pulpit How Internal Livers Ought to Behave Themselves in Time of Sickness ... How Titus Marched to Jerusalem, and How He was in Danger as He was ... The Imagination. Our Ally The Evidences of Christianity Briefly Stated, and the New ... Letter ii. Self-Control and Self-Culture. Thesaurus Fortify (6 Occurrences)... 3. (vi) To raise defensive works. Multi-Version Concordance Fortify (6 Occurrences). ... will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? ... /f/fortify.htm - 8k Line (131 Occurrences) Geba (22 Occurrences) Wall (227 Occurrences) Fortifiest (1 Occurrence) Fortifying (3 Occurrences) Fortifies (1 Occurrence) Fence (12 Occurrences) Trench (8 Occurrences) Ramah (38 Occurrences) Resources Summary of the Book of Ephesians - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.org Fortify: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fortify (6 Occurrences)Judges 9:31 Nehemiah 4:2 Isaiah 22:10 Jeremiah 51:53 Nahum 2:1 Nahum 3:14 Subtopics Related Terms |