Meaning
A fortress is a strongly fortified place built or used for defence against attack. It may be a fortified city, military position, or defensive structure.
Biblical Usage
In Scripture, fortresses provide protection against enemy attacks. Kings and armies occupied or constructed fortified places to defend territory and secure strategic locations.
The Bible also uses fortress language figuratively. David describes the LORD as his fortress (Psalm 18:2), using the image of a secure defensive place to describe protection and deliverance. Such figurative usage does not change the ordinary meaning of the word.
Key References
- 2 Samuel 5:7 — David takes the stronghold of Zion.
- 2 Samuel 22:2 — David describes the LORD as his fortress.
- 2 Chronicles 11:5-12 — Rehoboam builds fortified cities in Judah.
- Psalm 18:2 — The LORD is described as a fortress.
- Psalm 31:3 — God is described as a strong rock and fortress.
- Isaiah 25:12 — The fortress of a high wall is brought down.
Related Terms
- Stronghold — A secure or defensible place.
- City — A settled community, often with walls or defences in biblical times.
- Wall — A structure used to enclose or defend a place.
- Refuge — A place or condition of safety from danger.