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TAMMUZ 19

Gates

“And you shall write them … on your gates.” (Deu 6:9)

Sha‛ar (Strong’s H8179) is the Hebrew word that has been translated as ‘gate’, and a gate, or entrance is what this word means. However, if we look a little closer at the culture of Ancient Israel, we will learn that there is much associated with this word sha‛ar.

Many gates of that time were constructed in such a manner – especially those of larger towns or villages – as to include a large public area, similar to a town square. This area, referred to in Scripture as ‘gates,’ was the place of public assembly, for such occasions as the reading of Torah (see Neh 8:1-3), meetings of the elders of the city (like a town council meeting, see Ruth 4:1-3), matters concerning the military (see 2Chr 32:5-7), and arbitrations of legal issues (see Deu 18:8). And of course, the ‘gates’ were also a place of social gatherings and trade.

We are instructed to write the Words of our Elohim on our ‘gates.’  Do you suppose this might mean that everything that happens within the confines of the ‘gates’ (and all that it represents) must be done through the dictates of Torah? And that “these Words” (see Deu 6:6) must be the rule and measure of everything we do in connection with the general public?

“You must keep and do them, for it is your wisdom and understanding in the eyes of the peoples, who will hear all these statutes and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ For what great nation is there that has gods so near to them, as Adonai our God is whenever we call on Him? What great nation is there that has statutes and ordinances that are righteous—like all of this Torah that I am setting before you today?” (Deu 4:6-8 TLV)

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