Topical Encyclopedia Geographical Location: A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah, often referred to simply as Abel, is an ancient city located in the northern part of the Kingdom of Israel. It is situated near the border with Aram (modern-day Syria) and is associated with the region of Naphtali. The site is identified with the modern archaeological site of Tell Abil el-Qameh, near the Hula Valley in present-day Israel. Biblical References: A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of military and political events. 1. 2 Samuel 20:14-22: The city is most notably mentioned in the account of Sheba's rebellion against King David. Sheba, a Benjamite, led a revolt and sought refuge in A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah. Joab, the commander of David's army, pursued Sheba to the city. A wise woman from the city negotiated with Joab, leading to the beheading of Sheba and the end of the siege. The passage highlights the city's reputation for wisdom and its role in resolving the conflict: "Then a wise woman called out from the city, 'Listen! Listen! Please tell Joab to come here so I can speak with him.' When he had come near to her, the woman asked, 'Are you Joab?' 'I am,' he replied. 'Listen to the words of your servant,' she said. 'I am listening,' he answered." (2 Samuel 20:16-17) 2. 1 Kings 15:20: A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah is also mentioned in the context of the conflict between King Asa of Judah and King Baasha of Israel. Asa sought the help of Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram, who attacked several cities in Israel, including A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah, to relieve pressure on Judah: "So Ben-Hadad listened to King Asa and sent the commanders of his armies against the cities of Israel, conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel-beth-maacah, and all the land of Naphtali, including the store cities." (1 Kings 15:20) 3. 2 Kings 15:29: The city is again mentioned during the reign of Pekah, king of Israel, when Tiglath-Pileser III, the king of Assyria, invaded Israel and captured several cities, including A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah: "In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee—all the land of Naphtali—and he took the people to Assyria." (2 Kings 15:29) Historical and Archaeological Significance: A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah was a significant city due to its strategic location near the northern border of Israel. Its mention in various military campaigns underscores its importance as a fortified city and a regional center. Archaeological excavations at Tell Abil el-Qameh have revealed remains from various periods, including the Iron Age, which corresponds to the biblical era of the Israelite monarchy. The findings provide insights into the city's role in regional politics and its interactions with neighboring powers. Cultural and Theological Insights: The account of the wise woman in 2 Samuel 20 highlights the role of wisdom and negotiation in resolving conflicts, contrasting with the often violent and tumultuous narratives of the time. A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah serves as a backdrop for demonstrating the power of diplomacy and the influence of individuals in shaping historical events. The city's repeated mention in the context of invasions and political struggles reflects the broader themes of conflict and divine providence in the biblical narrative. Concordance A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 15:20 2 Kings 15:29 Thesaurus A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah (2 Occurrences)A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah. Abel-beth-maacah, A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah. Abelbethmaachah . Multi-Version Concordance A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah (2 Occurrences). ... /a/a'bel-beth-ma'acah.htm - 7k Abel-beth-maacah (2 Occurrences) Abelbethmaachah (2 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Naphtali? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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