Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: A'bel-Ma'im, meaning "Meadow of Waters" or "Brook of Waters," is a location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The name reflects the geographical features of the area, likely indicating a place with abundant water sources, such as streams or springs. Biblical References: A'bel-Ma'im is referenced in the context of the military campaigns of King Asa of Judah. The site is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 16:4, where it is associated with the northern kingdom of Israel during a period of conflict between the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. 2 Chronicles 16:4 : "Ben-Hadad listened to King Asa and sent the commanders of his armies against the cities of Israel, conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel-maim, and all the store cities of Naphtali." Historical Context: The mention of A'bel-Ma'im occurs during the reign of Asa, the third king of the Kingdom of Judah, who ruled from approximately 911 to 870 BCE. Asa sought to strengthen his kingdom and secure its borders against the northern kingdom of Israel. In this context, A'bel-Ma'im is noted as one of the locations targeted by Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram (Syria), who was allied with Asa. The capture of A'bel-Ma'im and other cities was part of Asa's strategy to weaken the northern kingdom by diverting its resources and attention. Geographical Significance: A'bel-Ma'im is believed to be located in the northern region of ancient Israel, within the territory of the tribe of Naphtali. Its identification with the city of Abel-beth-maacah, mentioned in other biblical passages, suggests it was situated near the modern-day border of Israel and Lebanon. The region's fertile land and water resources would have made it a valuable asset for any kingdom. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of A'bel-Ma'im remains uncertain, some scholars and archaeologists associate it with the site of Tel Abel Beth Maacah, which has been the focus of archaeological excavations. These excavations have uncovered evidence of a significant settlement during the Iron Age, aligning with the biblical period of the divided monarchy. Cultural and Theological Implications: The account of A'bel-Ma'im in the biblical narrative highlights the political and military strategies employed by the kings of Judah and Israel. It underscores the importance of alliances and the role of foreign powers, such as Aram, in the regional dynamics of the ancient Near East. The capture of A'bel-Ma'im and other cities reflects the ongoing struggle for dominance and control over key territories and resources. Related Entries: · Asa, King of Judah · Ben-Hadad, King of Aram · Naphtali, Tribe of · Abel-beth-maacah · Divided Monarchy in Israel and Judah Concordance A'bel-Ma'im (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 16:4 Thesaurus A'bel-Ma'im (1 Occurrence)A'bel-Ma'im. Abel-maim, A'bel-Ma'im. Abelmeholah . Multi-Version Concordance A'bel-Ma'im (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 16:4 Ben Hadad ... /a/a'bel-ma'im.htm - 6k Abelmeholah (3 Occurrences) Abel-maim (1 Occurrence) Abelmaim (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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