Up on the Rooftop

Pro 21:9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

Ancient Jewish culture made vast use of the rooftop. In fact, the law required that roofs be equipped with a railing to keep guests safe. Deu 22:8 When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine house, if any man fall from thence.

It is one thing to have a luxurious, large home, but if it comes with the cost of a spouse who does nothing but nit-pick and nag and fight and curse, it is best to go upstairs and dwell in a tent on the corner of the roof.

As humbling as that may sound, there are several reasons for use of the rooftop.
1) It effectively doubled the square footage (or cubitage) of the dwelling.
2) It provided for a better vantage of the area, giving a better perspective.
3) It was a nice place to catch a cool breeze in the mornings and especially the evenings.
4) The rooftop was an excellent place for entertaining. It provided an open space conducive for fellowship.

You will recall that David was on the roof of his palace in the evening when he began ogling Bathsheba's movements next door.

Rahab, the harlot, hid the spies on her roof and covered them with flax.

You will remember that many of those killed in Samson's last great display of strength were those partying on the roof.

During the feast of tabernacles, many would erect their booths or tents on their roofs.

I can think of a few couples who might do well to add roof access to their homes.