Bible Dictionary
Sheep-fold
A sheep-fold was a fenced or enclosed place where sheep were gathered for protection. In biblical imagery, the flock and its fold also illustrate the care and keeping of God’s people.
Definition
A sheep-fold was a strong fenced enclosure where sheep were gathered and protected.
Biblical Usage
Sheep-folds are mentioned in connection with Israelite flocks. In John 10, the Authorized Version uses “fold” for two Greek words, one of which properly means “flock.”
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A strong fenced enclosure for the protection of the sheep gathered within it (Num. 32:24; 1 Chr. 17:7; Ps. 50:9; 78:70). In John 10:16 the Authorized Version renders by “fold” two distinct Greek words, aule and poimne, the latter of which properly means a “flock,” and is so rendered in the Revised Version. (See also Matt. 26:31; Luke 2:8; 1 Cor. 9:7.) (See FOLD.)