Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Aram-maachah is a region and people group mentioned in the Old Testament, associated with the Aramean tribes. It is located in the northern part of ancient Israel, near the borders of modern-day Syria and Lebanon. The name "Maachah" is also used to refer to a person and a kingdom, indicating its significance in biblical history. Biblical References: Aram-maachah is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of military alliances and conflicts. One of the key references is found in 1 Chronicles 19:6-7, where the Ammonites, after realizing they had become odious to David, hired chariots and horsemen from Aram-maachah, along with other Aramean regions, to bolster their forces against Israel: "When the Ammonites saw that they had become a stench to David, they sent messengers to hire for themselves chariots and horsemen from Aram Naharaim, Aram-maachah, and Zobah, a total of thirty-two thousand chariots, as well as the king of Maacah with his troops, who came and camped near Medeba. And the Ammonites also assembled from their cities and marched out for battle." Historical Context: Aram-maachah was one of the smaller Aramean kingdoms during the time of the united monarchy in Israel. The Arameans were a Semitic people who established several small kingdoms in the region of Syria and Mesopotamia. The kingdom of Maachah, likely named after its founder or a significant leader, was situated near the Golan Heights, close to the territories of Bashan and Geshur. Geographical Location: The exact location of Aram-maachah is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to be in the vicinity of the modern-day Golan Heights. This area was strategically important due to its proximity to major trade routes and its fertile lands, making it a valuable ally or adversary in regional conflicts. Cultural and Political Significance: The people of Aram-maachah, like other Aramean groups, were known for their skills in warfare, particularly with chariots and horses. Their involvement in the conflict with Israel, as recorded in 1 Chronicles, highlights their role as a significant military power in the region. The alliance with the Ammonites against Israel underscores the complex political landscape of the time, where smaller kingdoms often banded together to resist the expanding influence of larger powers like Israel. Theological Implications: The interactions between Israel and Aram-maachah, as well as other neighboring nations, are often depicted in the Bible as part of God's sovereign plan for His people. These narratives illustrate the challenges Israel faced from surrounding nations and the need for reliance on God's guidance and protection. The alliances and conflicts serve as reminders of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. Conclusion: Aram-maachah, though a minor player in the grand narrative of the Bible, provides insight into the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East. Its mention in the context of military alliances against Israel highlights the ongoing struggles and the fulfillment of God's purposes through the history of His people. Concordance Aram-maachah (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 19:6 Thesaurus Aram-maachah (1 Occurrence)Aram-maachah. Aram-ma'acah, Aram-maachah. Aramnaharaim . Multi-Version Concordance Aram-maachah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ... /a/aram-maachah.htm - 6k Abhorred (31 Occurrences) Aram-ma'acah (1 Occurrence) Aramnaharaim 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 |
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