Topical Encyclopedia Aram-Rehob is a region and people group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the ancient Near Eastern geopolitical landscape. The term "Aram" generally refers to a group of Semitic-speaking peoples who inhabited regions in present-day Syria and parts of Mesopotamia. "Rehob" is often associated with a specific city or district within this broader Aramean territory.Biblical References: Aram-Rehob is mentioned in the context of the military campaigns of King David. In 2 Samuel 10:6, the text states: "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." This passage highlights the political alliances and military strategies of the time, with Aram-Rehob being one of the regions that provided mercenary forces to the Ammonites in their conflict against Israel. Historical and Geographical Context: The Arameans were a significant cultural and political force in the ancient Near East from the late second millennium BC through the early first millennium BC. Aram-Rehob, as part of this broader Aramean confederation, would have been located in the region that is now part of modern-day Syria. The city of Rehob itself is less clearly identified, but it is often associated with the area near the Beqaa Valley or possibly further north. Cultural and Theological Significance: The interactions between Israel and the Aramean states, including Aram-Rehob, are illustrative of the complex relationships between the Israelites and their neighbors. These interactions often involved warfare, alliances, and trade. From a theological perspective, the conflicts with Aram-Rehob and other Aramean states are seen as part of the broader narrative of Israel's struggle to maintain its covenant identity amidst external pressures and influences. The involvement of Aram-Rehob in the conflict with David underscores the theme of divine providence and protection over Israel. Despite the formidable alliances against them, the biblical narrative emphasizes that Israel's success in battle is attributed to the LORD's favor and intervention. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Aram-Rehob is limited, the broader archaeological record of Aramean culture provides insights into their society. The Arameans are known for their distinctive art, language, and architecture, which have been uncovered in various sites across Syria and Mesopotamia. These findings contribute to our understanding of the historical context in which the biblical narratives were set. In summary, Aram-Rehob represents a significant entity within the biblical and historical landscape of the ancient Near East. Its mention in the scriptures provides a glimpse into the geopolitical dynamics of the time and underscores the ongoing narrative of Israel's interactions with surrounding nations. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARAM-REHOBa-ram-re'-hob. See SYRIA. Thesaurus AramrehobAramrehob. Aram-naharaim, Aramrehob. Aram-rehob . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ... See SYRIA. Aram-naharaim, Aramrehob. Aram-rehob . Reference Bible. /a/aramrehob.htm - 6k Aram-rehob Aram-naharaim (5 Occurrences) Aram's (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 |
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