Definition. The Biblical meaning of sheepfold It refers to a closed place, in which small livestock, such as sheep, are locked up at night. This is done in order to protect them from inclement weather changes, also from thieves and predators.
This word is found repeatedly in the Bible, where it is used to refer to lost sheep. As well as those people, who do not enter through the door of the fold are considerate looters.
This It is because in those areas there are many pens, which are built with stone walls. Sometimes the unevenness of the terrain was used and branches and thorny bushes were placed at the doors. In these enclosures the sheep sleep and rest peacefully.
The cattle that are sheltered are cared for by just one shepherd, who watches over them at night and in the morning the others open the door for him. Then each one calls his flock and it moves when it recognizes the sound of the voice of its caretaker.
Other natural pens
When a shepherd travels with his sheep and night falls, he resorts to improvising shelters with branches, sticks and thorns. It is also common to use caves for better shelter, especially the weather and the cold that is present at night. Sometimes they take advantage of the curves of the terrain and the plains so that the moonlight allows them to see better.
The church as the people’s fold
The Bible belongs to the list of books that has the most years, so it is necessary that when read it be interpreted and applied to modern times. When referring to a sheepfold can be talking about the temple of God. In this the people are the sheep, who need protection, care and guidance.
The door is Jesus Christ, through which we can enter or leave the shelter, those who enter if they pass through Christ are thieves and marauders. We could well take this as all that impure act that tempts the people. Therefore, the good shepherd watches over his lost sheep to return to the fold.
When talking about ferocious animals, mention is made of the devil, who always looks for a way to kidnap the weak. And the inclement weather changes are the difficult situations that can arise in the life of each of his children.