20 – TWENTY
(COMPLETENESS, DIVINE ORDER, WAITING, COMPLETION)
In Biblical numerology, numbers often carry significant meanings and symbolism. The number 20 is one such number with various references throughout the Bible. Here’s an overview of its significance, meaning, and a message for Christians based on the number 20:
References
1. Value of a slave: “When the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt” (Gen 37:28).
2. Jacob and Laban: Jacob served Laban for 20 years – 14 years for his two daughters and 6 years for his livestock (Gen 31:38-41).
3. Solomon’s Temple: The construction of Solomon’s Temple and his palace took a total of 20 years (1 Kgs 9:10).
4. Israel’s Judges: In the time of the Judges, Israel was oppressed by King Jabin of Canaan for 20 years before Deborah and Barak delivered them (Judg 4:3).
5. Oppression and liberation: The Israelites were oppressed by Jabin for 20 years before being freed.
Symbolism
1. Meaning of completeness and waiting:
The number 20 often symbolizes a complete or perfect waiting period in the Bible. It represents the end of one phase and the beginning of another.
2. Examples from scripture:
– Twenty Shekels was a significant monetary amount in biblical times (Ex 21:32).
3. Symbolism of trial and preparation:
The number 20 is associated with periods of testing, waiting, and preparation before significant events or divine fulfillment. It often denotes a time of growth, development and maturity.
4. Biblical numerology:
In Hebrew numerology, 20 is represented by the letter kaph. It’s seen as a number of completion and sufficiency.
5. Age of responsibility:
Twenty was considered the age when men became eligible for military service, signifying maturity and readiness.
REFLECTION
Patience and Perseverance: Like Jacob, Christians may face extended periods of waiting or trials. The number 20 reminds us to persevere through these times, trusting in God’s timing.
– Completion and Fulfillment: As a number of completion, 20 can signify the fulfillment of God’s promises in our lives. It encourages us to trust in His perfect plan and timing.
Understanding the significance of 20 can deepen faith and provide guidance during times of waiting or preparation. It reminds believers to trust in God’s timing and purposes, even during extended periods of trial or testing.
The number 20 in the Bible emphasizes themes of completeness, divine order, waiting, preparation, and the fulfillment of God’s promises after periods of testing. For Christians today, it serves as a reminder to remain faithful and patient during times of waiting, trusting that God is working to bring about His plans in due time.