The Meaning Of 20 In The Bible
The number 20 is an important number in the Bible, appearing more than 600 times, with special importance in the book of Revelation and the Old Testament. Scholars agree that the number 20 is used symbolically to signify a broad range of meanings, many of which are related to judgment and justice. In this article we will discuss in depth the many meanings behind the number 20 in the Bible, as well as provide examples of its use in Scripture.
Numerology In The Bible
Numerology is the practice of assigning numerical values to words, names and symbols for the purpose of gaining insight into deeper meanings. In the Bible, numerical values are assigned to words, symbols, and events to convey spiritual truths and messages that would not be easily apparent from merely reading the text. Numerology is found throughout the Book of Revelation, where various numbers are assigned to characters or references in order to communicate deeper meanings.
Numbers As Symbols
The number 20 is used as a symbol in both the Old and the New Testaments. In the Old Testament, it is used to symbolize judgement in a variety of ways, often having to do with being punished for sins. For example, in Leviticus 20, God commands that those who commit certain sins be punished by being stoned to death. In this passage, the number 20 is used as a symbol of judgement and justice.
In the New Testament, the number 20 is used to symbolize four aspects of Jesus Christ’s ministry on earth, which scholars refer to as the four “moments of truth”: his baptism in the Jordan River, his temptation in the wilderness, the institution of the Eucharist, and his ascension. These four moments remind us that Jesus came to earth as a sacrifice for our sins, and by his death and resurrection, accomplished our salvation.
The Significance Of The Number 20
The number 20 has special significance in the Bible because it is the number of “perfection,” as God is seen by many as the perfect being. Additionally, the number 20 is seen by some as an “orderly” number, as it can be divided in a variety of ways, including into 10 pairs of two, four groups of five, and 20 parts of one. Thus, it is seen to symbolize both perfection and order, both of which are essential attributes of God.
20 As An Age Of Maturity
The number 20 is also used to symbolize the age of maturity and adulthood in the Bible. In Deuteronomy 1: 39, it is noted that the Israelites were of age at the age of 20, indicating that it was a time of transition from childhood to adulthood.
In many cultures throughout history, the age of 20 has signified the coming of age and the acceptance of responsibility. As such, the number 20 can be seen to symbolize the preparedness and awareness to assume these responsibilities, both inside and outside of the Biblical context.
20 As A Measure Of Perfection
The number 20 is used as a symbol of perfection in the Bible. In Numbers 11, God commands Moses to take 70 elders who were to be full of the spirit, and by “imparting a portion (of spirit)” to them, only the elders of 20 years or above were able to handle it. This tells us that the number 20 is a sign of perfection and spiritual maturity.
In the book of Revelation, “twenty-four elders” are also shown to be in attendance in Heaven, as they are seen to symbolize a perfect people. Again, this communicates that perfection can only be achieved with age and maturity, as signified by the number 20.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number 20 is used in the Bible for a variety of purposes, all of which involve a sense judgement and justice. The number 20 is seen to symbolize perfection and spiritual maturity, as well as the coming of age and the assumed responsibility that comes with it. Moreover, the number 20 is found in many places throughout the Bible, reminding us of its importance as a significant number.
