Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Aram-maacah is a region and people group mentioned in the Old Testament, associated with the Aramean territories. It is often referenced in the context of Israel's interactions with neighboring nations during the period of the united and divided monarchies. Geographical Location: Aram-maacah was located in the northern part of the Transjordan, near the region of Bashan and the territory of Geshur. It is believed to have been situated east of the Sea of Galilee, in what is now modern-day Syria. The exact boundaries of Aram-maacah are not clearly defined in the biblical text, but it was part of the broader Aramean confederation. Biblical References: Aram-maacah is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of military alliances and conflicts. 1. 2 Samuel 10:6-8 : "When the Ammonites realized they had become a stench to David, they hired twenty thousand Aramean foot soldiers from Beth-rehob and Zobah, as well as the king of Maacah with a thousand men, and twelve thousand men from Tob. On hearing this, David sent Joab and the entire army of mighty men. The Ammonites marched out and arrayed themselves for battle at the entrance to the gate of the city, while the Arameans of Zobah and Rehob and the men of Tob and Maacah were by themselves in the open country." This passage highlights the involvement of Aram-maacah in a coalition against King David of Israel. The king of Maacah provided troops to support the Ammonites in their conflict with Israel. 2. 1 Chronicles 19:6-7 : "When the Ammonites realized they had become a stench to David, Hanun and the Ammonites sent a thousand talents of silver to hire chariots and horsemen from Aram-naharaim, Aram-maacah, and Zobah. So they hired thirty-two thousand chariots and the king of Maacah with his troops, who came and camped near Medeba, while the Ammonites gathered from their cities and came out for battle." This parallel account in Chronicles reiterates the involvement of Aram-maacah in the military alliance against Israel, emphasizing the strategic importance of the region in regional conflicts. Historical Context: Aram-maacah was part of the larger Aramean network of city-states and kingdoms that existed during the Iron Age. The Arameans were known for their skilled charioteers and warriors, often engaging in conflicts with Israel and other neighboring nations. The political landscape of the time was characterized by shifting alliances and frequent warfare, with Aram-maacah playing a role in these dynamics. Cultural and Religious Aspects: As part of the Aramean culture, the people of Aram-maacah would have shared in the Semitic traditions and religious practices common to the region. The Arameans worshiped a pantheon of gods, with Hadad being one of the chief deities. The interactions between Israel and Aram-maacah, as well as other Aramean states, often involved not only military but also cultural exchanges. Significance in Biblical Narrative: The mention of Aram-maacah in the biblical narrative underscores the geopolitical challenges faced by Israel during the reigns of its early kings. The alliances and conflicts with Aramean states, including Aram-maacah, reflect the broader theme of Israel's struggle to maintain its sovereignty and fulfill its covenantal role amidst external pressures. Conclusion: While Aram-maacah is not a major focus in the biblical text, its inclusion in the narratives of Samuel and Chronicles provides insight into the complex political and military landscape of the ancient Near East. The region's involvement in coalitions against Israel highlights the ongoing tensions and interactions between Israel and its neighbors during the monarchy period. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARAM-MAACAHa-ram-ma'-a-ka. See SYRIA. Strong's Hebrew 758. Aram -- Syria and its inhab., also the names of a son of Shem ...... Nahor, and an Isr. NASB Word Usage Aram (65), Aram-maacah* (1), Arameans (64). Aram, Mesopotamia, Syria, Syrians. From the same as ... /hebrew/758.htm - 6k 4601. Maakah -- an Israelite name, also a non-Isr. name, also a ... Thesaurus Arammaacah (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARAM-MAACAH. a-ram-ma'-a-ka. See SYRIA. Multi-Version Concordance Arammaacah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ... /a/arammaacah.htm - 7k Aram-maacah (1 Occurrence) Aram-ma'acah (1 Occurrence) Maacah (30 Occurrences) Naharaim (5 Occurrences) Odious (9 Occurrences) Mesopotamia (8 Occurrences) Mesopota'mia (7 Occurrences) Charioteers (19 Occurrences) Aramitess (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the significance of Syria/Aram in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Arameans? | GotQuestions.org Who was Ben-Hadad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Aram-maacah (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 19:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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