What was Mortar in the Bible?
Mortar In Jerusalem
The mention of mortar in Zephaniah 1:11 can be a bit perplexing as it seems to refer to a place or an object in Jerusalem. Let’s break down this verse and explore it from a biblical perspective.
In Zephaniah 1:11 , it states: Wail, you who live in the market district; all your merchants will be wiped out, all who trade with silver will be destroyed. This verse is part of a prophecy of judgment against Judah for their idolatry and disobedience to God. The context of this verse is a warning of the impending judgment that will come upon the people of Judah.
The mention of mortar in this verse is a bit ambiguous, and scholars have different interpretations of its meaning. Some believe that mortar refers to a specific place in Jerusalem, possibly a marketplace or a district known for trading. Others suggest that mortar could symbolize the economic activities or material wealth of the people that will be destroyed in the judgment.
From a biblical perspective, we can interpret the mention of mortar in Zephaniah 1:11 as a symbol of the worldly wealth and materialism that the people of Judah had placed their trust in, rather than relying on God. The destruction of the merchants and traders in the market district signifies the consequences of their sinful actions and the judgment that God will bring upon them.
As believers, we are reminded through this verse of the importance of putting our trust in God rather than in material possessions or worldly pursuits. It serves as a warning against idolatry and the dangers of seeking security and satisfaction in anything other than God Himself.
In conclusion, the mention of mortar in Zephaniah 1:11 serves as a symbolic representation of the material wealth and worldly pursuits that the people of Judah had prioritized over their relationship with God. It stands as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of placing our trust in God alone.