The number 2 has great symbolic meaning in Scripture. It often represents partnerships, unions, witnesses and confirmation. Keep reading to learn more about the significance of 2.
Partnerships and Unions
One of the most common symbolic meanings of the number 2 in the Bible is partnerships and unions. For example:
- God created man and woman to come together in marriage and become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:23-24). This union of 2 people reflects Christ’s spiritual union with the church (Ephesians 5:31-32).
- Jesus sent out his 12 disciples in pairs to preach, teach and heal (Mark 6:7). This partnership gave them support and enabled their witness to be established.
- There is a spiritual partnership between Christ and those who belong to him. Jesus said “I am the vine, you are the branches” (John 15:5), illustrating the close relationship of 2 entities intertwined as one.
Witnesses and Confirmation
Two witnesses were required in the Old Testament to convict someone of a crime (Deuteronomy 19:15). This principle is confirmed in the New Testament (1 Timothy 5:19). Having 2 people witness an event adds confirmation and validity. Examples include:
- God divided his Word into 2 main sections – the Old and New Testaments. This dual testimony reinforces God’s covenants and promises.
- In Revelation 11, 2 prophets called the 2 Witnesses will testify with miraculous power in Jerusalem before the return of Christ.
- At Jesus’ transfiguration, God’s voice spoke from heaven, confirming Jesus as His Son. Two witnesses – Elijah and Moses – appeared alongside Jesus, adding testimony (Luke 9:28-36).
Contrast and Comparison
The number 2 can also convey the idea of contrast or comparison between two things or people, such as:
- Adam and Christ – Adam brought death through his sin, but Christ brings life and hope of resurrection as the “last Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 45).
- Old and New Covenants – The Old was based on physical blessings, while the New offers spiritual blessings. Obedience to the Old was just outward actions, while the New also requires obedience in the heart and intent (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
- Cain and Abel – The first two brothers contrasted righteous Abel with the wicked, jealous Cain who murdered him (Genesis 4:1-16; Hebrews 11:4).
Division and Separation
In some cases, the number 2 conveys the idea of division, separation or being “set apart”:
- On the second day of Creation, God divided the waters above from the waters below (Genesis 1:6-8). This separation created boundaries and distinctions.
- The second death mentioned in Revelation 20:6, 14 and 21:8 refers to being thrown into the lake of fire. This eternal judgment divides those who are righteous from those who practiced evil.
- When Korah rebelled against Moses’ leadership, the earth opened up and swallowed Korah’s followers (Numbers 16). The 250 men were separated from the rest of Israel.
- God divided people at the Tower of Babel by confusing their languages, separating them across the earth (Genesis 11:1-9).
Remember These Key Points
In summary, here are some key things the number 2 represents in Scripture:
- Partnerships and unions between people or God and man
- Witnesses, confirmation and establishing truth
- Contrast and comparison between people or spiritual ideas
- Division, separation and being “set apart” from others
The number 2 shows up repeatedly as these concepts are established in God’s Word. It lays a foundation of duality and confirmation that conveys great symbolic significance each time it appears.
Conclusion: Number 2 Meaning in the Bible
The symbolic meaning behind the number 2 in Scripture is multifaceted, representing several important spiritual concepts. At its core, the number 2 establishes a pattern of confirmation, partnership and agreement.
Two witnesses were required to convict someone of a crime or establish truth. This principle of corroboration by two parties occurs throughout both the Old and New Testaments. When God divided his Word into two Testaments, it gave dual testimony to his covenants with mankind.
Partnerships and unions also hold significance as seen in marriage when husband and wife come together as “one flesh.” Jesus sent out disciples in pairs to give them support in spreading his Gospel. The relationship between Christ and the church links two entities spiritually.
The number two can also indicate contrast between spiritual or natural ideas. Division and separation is another concept it represents, setting people or objects apart into different realms.
In all its uses, the number two intimates that there is “another” which can establish, confirm, agree or bear witness to the first. This underlying meaning permeates Scripture, revealing and reinforcing God’s patterns of righteousness, holiness and truth.