Gate

A gate was an opening in a wall that allowed people, animals, and goods to enter or leave a city or other enclosed place. Gates were usually protected by strong doors and helped defend the people inside.

In Bible times, the area at a city gate was also an important public meeting place. Leaders judged legal cases there (Deuteronomy 21:18–21), business and legal agreements were made there (Genesis 23:10–18; Ruth 4:1–12), and people gathered to hear important news and public announcements (2 Samuel 15:2).

See Architecture; City.