What was the Tower of Meah?
The Tower of Meah was a fortified structure mentioned in the book of Nehemiah as part of the northern section of the wall of Jerusalem, reconstructed during the leadership of Nehemiah after the Babylonian exile. The Hebrew name Migdal Meah (מִגְדַּל מֵאָה) translates to “Tower of a Hundred,” likely referring either to its measurement (possibly one hundred cubits) or to an association with a group or cohort of a hundred men or families. The word migdal means “tower,” and meah means “hundred.” It is one of the key landmarks cited in the account of Jerusalem’s wall restoration.
The Tower of Meah is specifically mentioned in Nehemiah 3:1:
“Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests went to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set its doors in place, building as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and as far as the Tower of Hananel.” (NIV)
The Tower of Meah stood between the Sheep Gate and the Tower of Hananel, both located in the northeastern section of Jerusalem’s wall. These towers likely served defensive and watchtower functions and were strategically important in protecting vulnerable sections of the city.
Biblical References and Cross-References
- Nehemiah 3:1 – The primary reference to the Tower of Meah during the rebuilding of the wall.
- Nehemiah 12:39 – Possibly mentioned again in the description of the dedication ceremony when the two great choirs walked upon the wall.
- Jeremiah 31:38 – Though not by name, the area of the tower near the corner and Hananel is mentioned in prophetic visions of the city’s future.
- Zechariah 14:10 – Refers generally to Jerusalem’s topography and regions that may have included this tower in the scope of future restoration.
Historical and Biblical Context
The Book of Nehemiah records the events during the Persian period, when Nehemiah, the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I, returned to Jerusalem with permission to rebuild the broken walls of the city (Nehemiah 2:1-8). This work was both a practical defense measure and a spiritual restoration of the people’s identity after the exile.
The Tower of Meah, mentioned early in the list of construction efforts in chapter 3, appears as one of the first landmarks rebuilt under Nehemiah’s leadership. Its proximity to the Sheep Gate, through which animals for temple sacrifice would be brought, indicates its closeness to the temple complex and its spiritual importance. The priests themselves undertook the repair of this section, underscoring the sacred nature of this portion of the wall.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
The Tower of Meah represents more than just an ancient wall structure—it symbolizes faithful stewardship, unity, and rebuilding for God’s glory. It was part of a city God chose for His name, and the priests’ involvement shows that restoration begins with spiritual leadership.
For Christians today, the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah serves as a metaphor for spiritual restoration, church unity, and faithful service in God’s kingdom. Just as each section of the wall had to be built by different groups, so each believer has a role in building up the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-16).
Moreover, the Tower of Meah—standing firm as a defense tower—can remind believers of the importance of watchfulness, spiritual protection, and taking one’s post seriously in the spiritual battle (1 Peter 5:8; Nehemiah 4:9).
How the Tower of Meah Points to Jesus and the Gospel
The Tower of Meah was part of the infrastructure guarding the holy city of Jerusalem, the place where God chose to dwell among His people. Ultimately, Jesus would walk within these very walls and lay down His life outside them for the sins of the world (Hebrews 13:12).
The reconstruction of Jerusalem‘s wall—including the Tower of Meah—was part of God’s providential plan to prepare the city for the coming of the Messiah. The work of Nehemiah and the people preserved Jerusalem and the temple until the time of Christ.
Just as the Tower of Meah stood watch, Jesus is the ultimate Watchman and Defender of His people. He watches over His flock and laid His life down for them (John 10:11). The tower is a picture of Christ’s unwavering protection and strength, and His call for believers to remain steadfast and alert.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Restoration and Rebuilding
The Tower of Meah was part of a divine project to restore what had been broken down. This theme echoes throughout Scripture—from God restoring Israel after exile, to Jesus restoring fallen sinners to right relationship with God.
2. Participation in God’s Work
Just as priests helped build the Tower of Meah, all believers are called to participate in God’s kingdom work, using their gifts for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12).
3. Spiritual Watchfulness
A tower implies vigilance and defense. Believers are repeatedly called to watch, pray, and stand guard against spiritual dangers (Colossians 4:2, Matthew 26:41).
4. Sanctity of the City of God
Jerusalem is central to God’s redemptive plan. The restoration of its walls points to God’s care for His covenant people and the significance of place in biblical theology. Revelation ends with a vision of a new Jerusalem, fully restored and protected forever (Revelation 21:2).
Reflection Questions
- What broken “walls” in your life might God be calling you to rebuild?
- How are you contributing to the work of restoration in your church or community?
- In what ways can you be more spiritually alert and watchful?
- How do you view your role as a believer in the larger story of God’s redemptive work?
- What does the faithfulness of the priests in rebuilding the Tower of Meah teach you about serving God with what you have?
The Tower of Meah, though briefly mentioned, stands as a powerful symbol of commitment, vigilance, and hope in God‘s ongoing work of restoration.