Golden City
TextsWhat is the meaning of Golden City in the Bible?
The translation 'golden city' in Isaiah 14:4 derives from the Masoretic 'qere' reading, but most ancient versions and the 'ketiv' support a word connoting unrest or insolence, which aligns better with the context of mocking the fallen king of Babylon.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this textual variance clarifies the original intent of the taunt against the Babylonian king, moving beyond literal geographic interpretation to understand the poetic critique of arrogance.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Golden City functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Golden City in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Golden City clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Isaiah 14:4
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Golden City." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/golden-city/