Bible Dictionary
Hold
A hold is a stronghold or fortified refuge. The term is used especially of the places where David and others took shelter from enemies.
Definition
A hold is a stronghold, fortress, or fortified refuge. In the biblical records the term especially describes places of refuge used by David and others. It can also translate a prison or place of confinement.
Biblical Usage
David’s hiding places are called holds or strongholds. The term is used for fortified places in several historical accounts and in Revelation 18:2, where the Revised Version uses “hold” or, in the margin, “prison.”
Historical Background
The supplied material notes that the American Standard Revised Version frequently renders the word “stronghold.” Its exact application varies with the context.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A fortress, the name given to David’s lurking-places (1 Sam. 22:4, 5; 24:22).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>hold: In the American Standard Revised Version frequently "stronghold" (Jud 9:49; 1Sa 22:4; 24:22; 2Sa 5:17; 23:14; 1Ch 11:16; 12:16). See FORTIFICATION. In Re 18:2 for the King James Version "cage" (phulake) the Revised Version (British and American) substitutes, as in first clause, "hold," and in the margin "prison."</p>