What do windows symbolize in the Bible?

Answered by Ricardo McCardle

Windows in the Bible symbolize various things depending on the context and the specific passage being referenced. In general, windows can represent a connection between the divine and human realms, allowing for communication and revelation. They often serve as a metaphorical portal through which spiritual insights and divine interventions can enter into the earthly realm.

One significant example of windows symbolizing divine communication is found in the story of Noah and the flood. In Genesis 6:16, God instructs Noah to build a window in the ark. This window not only allowed light to enter the ark but also served as a means for Noah to receive divine instructions and guidance during the catastrophic event. It symbolizes the communication between God and Noah, highlighting the importance of obedience and trust in following God’s commandments.

Windows can also represent opportunities for divine intervention and blessings. In the book of Malachi, God challenges the people of Israel to test Him by opening the windows of heaven to pour out blessings upon them (Malachi 3:10). This imagery suggests that God’s blessings and provisions are abundantly available if the people are faithful and obedient to Him. Opening the windows symbolizes an act of faith, inviting God’s favor and provision into their lives.

Additionally, windows can symbolize the presence of God and His watchful care over His people. In the book of Psalms, the psalmist declares, “The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven; His eyes see, His eyelids test the sons of men” (Psalm 11:4). This imagery suggests that God sees and knows everything that happens on earth, much like someone looking out of a window and observing the world below. It symbolizes God’s omniscience and His constant vigilance over His creation.

In the New Testament, windows take on a different significance in relation to the ministry of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of Luke, there is a story of a paralyzed man who was brought to Jesus for healing. Due to the crowded house, his friends decided to lower him through the roof by removing the tiles (Luke 5:18-19). This act of lowering the man through the roof can be seen as symbolizing the breaking of barriers and the unconventional means by which the healing power of Jesus can enter into a person’s life. The window, in this case, represents an opening for divine intervention and miraculous healing.

Furthermore, windows can symbolize an invitation to encounter and experience the presence of God. In the book of Revelation, Jesus speaks to the church in Laodicea, saying, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). This imagery of Jesus standing at the door and knocking represents His desire to enter into intimate fellowship with individuals. The window, in this context, can symbolize the opening through which Jesus can enter and commune with believers.

Windows in the Bible symbolize various aspects of divine communication, intervention, and presence. They represent the connection between the divine and human realms, the opportunities for blessings and interventions, and the invitation to encounter God personally. Windows serve as visual metaphors for spiritual insights and divine revelations, highlighting the importance of faith, obedience, and openness to God’s presence and guidance in our lives.