Door in the Bible Encyclopedia - ISBE

dor: Most commonly the rendering of Hebrew pethach, "doorway," deleth, "door" proper (the two distinguished in Gen 19:6), or of Greek thura, which represents both meanings. The door proper was usually of wood, frequently sheeted with metal, sometimes of one slab of stone, as shown in excavations in the Hauran. It turned on pivots (the "hinges" of Prov 26:14) working in sockets above and below, and was provided with a bolt (2 Sam 13:17) or with lock and key (Jdg 3:23). The doorway was enclosed by the stone threshold (1 Ki 14:17), the two doorposts on either side, and the lintel above (Ex 12:7). Doors were frequently two- leaved, and folding ones are mentioned in connection with the temple (1 Ki 6:34). Where "door" is used in connectio with city gates (Neh 3:1 ff) it refers to the door proper which swings on its hinges as distinguished from the whole structure. The custom of fastening to the doorposts small cases containing a parchment inscribed with the words of Dt 6:4-9; 11:13-21 had its origin in the command there given. See also GATE; HOUSE. Figurative: (1) Christ is "the door" into the gospel ministry (Jn 10:1,2,7); ministers must receive their authority from Him, and exercise it in His spirit. (2) `Through faith in Him also both shepherds and sheep enter into the kingdom of God (Jn 10:9), and find all their spiritual needs supplied.' (3) The figure in Rev 3:20 is expressive of Christ's patient, persistent and affectionate appeal to men. (4) Elsewhere also of opportunity (Mt 25:10; Acts 14:27; 1 Cor 16:9; 2 Cor 2:12; Rev 3:8). (5) Of freedom and power (Col 4:3).