What Does Fortress Mean in the Bible? 
The word fortress in the Bible means a city that is protected by walls. It is also used to describe God, who is the divine protector of his people. This dictionary is a compilation of the Scripture index that is included in the NIV Thematic Study Bible. It also includes the words refuge, shelter, defense, and protection.
Refuge
The concept of refuge is rooted in the Bible. The Old Testament often speaks of the dangers of life in the world, including physical and spiritual threats. Psalm 71:1 mentions such dangers, as does Judges 9:15. Psalm 142:4 says that these dangers can also arise emotionally.
The Israelites had just conquered several kingdoms on the east side of the Jordan River, and now they are on their way into the land of Canaan. But before entering the land, they must first make preparations for their arrival. This includes dividing the land into three parts. Then, they must explain their situation to the elders of the city. The elders will then take them in and provide them with a place to stay.
While there is no mention of intentional murder, the law states that a person who kills another will be punished. In the case of unintentional murder, the suspect may be sentenced to life in a city of refuge. Besides, it was against the law to kill someone, even if it is an innocent bystander.
Protection
In the Bible, fortresses are often a metaphor for God’s protection. The word fortress in Hebrew is matsuwd, meaning “castle,” “stronghold,” or “place of defense.” In other words, a fortress is a place of defense against large-scale attacks. People may declare, “The Lord is my refuge, my fortress.”
The Bible often uses the word “refuge” to refer to a safe place for a person. It can also refer to a place of confidence, hope, and trust. Whether we live in a city, a town, or an island, we are protected by God.
Defense
The Old Testament is filled with references to fortress defenses. These structures stood as symbols of God’s protection and provided protection for those inside them. During times of war, the residents would flee to these fortresses, which were usually made of high towers, which could resist forces of many times their size.
Shelter
In the Bible, God is referred to as a fortress 21 times. The phrase is used twice in Proverbs and 16 times in the Psalms. The word fortress refers to a stronghold or castle, and can refer to a defense system or protection against large-scale attacks. Throughout the Bible, people can say, “The Lord is my fortress and my shield.”
The word fortress is also a synonym for the word shelter, or a fortified place. It can refer to a town, castle, stronghold, or any other place where a person can seek protection. The word fortress is derived from the Hebrew root word tsur, which means to bind up, press upon, or thrust forward. In addition, the word can refer to a rock or neck, which is why some translations also use the word stronghold instead.
David, the author of the Psalms, often refers to God as his fortress and refuge. David himself experienced many physical battles throughout his life, but David knew that God provided the strength and protection that he needed. In the ancient world, fortresses were often enclosed within a city or town, and people would often retreat there in times of danger. When they did, the fortress was stocked with food, water, ammunition, and supplies.
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