post Summary and Overview

(1.) A runner, or courier, for the rapid transmission of letters, etc. (2 Chr. 30:6; Esther 3:13, 15; 8:10, 14; Job 9:25; Jer. 51:31). Such messengers were used from very early times. Those employed by the Hebrew kings had a military character (1 Sam. 22:17; 2 Kings 10:25, "guard," marg. "runners"). The modern system of postal communication was first established by Louis XI. of France in A.D. 1464. (2.) This word sometimes also is used for lintel or threshold (Isa. 6:4).

1. Probably, as Gesenius argues, the door-case of a door, including the lintel and side posts. The posts of the doors of the temple were of olive wood. #1Ki 6:33| 2. A courier or carrier of messages, used among other places in #Job 9:25|

POST (the Hebrew word means a runner), a messenger or bearer of tidings, especially of royal despatches. Esth 3:13, 2 Sam 20:15; Am 8:14; Jer 51:31. That they were employed in very early times is proved by Job's comparison. Job 9:25. To convey intelligence quickly, the Persian kings placed sentinels at proper distances, who, by crying to one another, gave notices of public occurrences. This method being impracticable for secret intelligence, Cyrus established posts that rode night and day. Persians and Romans impressed men and beasts into this public service, and to this fact our Lord alludes. Matt 5:41. The regularity and swiftness of the Roman posts were admirable.

rats, "a runner" (Esther 3:13; Esther 3:15; Esther 8:14). Couriers from the earliest times (Job 9:25) carried messages, especially royal despatches. "My days are (not as the slow caravan, but) swifter than a post." (2 Chronicles 30:6; 2 Chronicles 30:10; Jeremiah 51:31.) Relays of messengers were kept regularly organized for the service ("post" is from positus, "placed at fixed intervals"). The Persians and Romans impressed men and horses for the service of government despatches; letters of private persons were conveyed by private hands. Louis XI of France first (A.D. 1464) established an approximation to our modern post.