Bible Dictionary
Tower
A tower was a fortified structure, watch-post, or elevated place of defense. Towers were also built in vineyards as shelters for those guarding the crops.
Definition
A tower was a fortified structure, watch-post, or elevated defensive position. Towers were also built in vineyards as lodges for keepers guarding the crops.
Biblical Usage
Scripture mentions military towers in exposed places and vineyard towers in agricultural settings. They serve images of defense, watchfulness, and protection.
Historical Background
Vineyard towers remained in use in Palestine, especially near Hebron, where they provided shelter for those overseeing the vines.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Watch-towers or fortified posts in frontier or exposed situations are mentioned in Scripture, as the tower of Edar, etc., (Genesis 35:21; Isaiah 21:5,8,11; Micah 4:8) etc.; the tower of Lebanon. (2 Samuel 8:6) Besides these military structures, we read in Scripture of towers built in vineyards as an almost necessary appendage to them. (1 Samuel 5:2; Matthew 22:33; Mark 12:1) Such towers are still in use in Palestine in vineyards, especially near Hebron, and are used as lodges for the keepers of the vineyards.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>tou'-er.</p><p>See FORTIFICATION, I, 5; CITY, II, 1.</p>