Ash'teroth-karna'im
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Ash'teroth-karna'im is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. It is associated with the early history of the patriarchs and the ancient Near Eastern conflicts that took place during their time. The name "Ash'teroth-karna'im" is often understood to mean "Ashteroth of the two horns" or "Ashteroth of the two peaks," suggesting a geographical feature or a cultural reference to the goddess Astarte, who was often depicted with horns.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 14:5 : "In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him went out and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzites in Ham, the Emites in Shaveh-kiriathaim." This passage is part of the narrative describing the campaign of Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allies against various peoples in the region, including the Rephaim, a group often associated with giants or mighty warriors. Ash'teroth-karna'im is noted as the location where the Rephaim were defeated.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Ash'teroth-karna'im is believed to have been located in the region of Bashan, east of the Jordan River, an area known for its fertile lands and strategic importance. The mention of Ash'teroth-karna'im in Genesis 14 places it within the context of the "War of the Kings," a significant event involving several city-states and tribal groups in the ancient Near East. This battle narrative highlights the geopolitical dynamics of the time and the interactions between different cultures and peoples.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

The name Ash'teroth-karna'im suggests a connection to the Canaanite goddess Astarte, also known as Ashtoreth, who was worshiped in various forms throughout the ancient Near East. Astarte was often associated with fertility, war, and love, and her worship included rituals that were later condemned by the Israelites as idolatrous. The reference to "karna'im" or "horns" may indicate a specific cultic site or a natural landmark that was significant in the worship of Astarte.

Archaeological Insights:

While the exact location of Ash'teroth-karna'im remains uncertain, some scholars and archaeologists have proposed sites in the modern-day Golan Heights or southern Syria as possible locations. Excavations in these areas have uncovered artifacts and structures that provide insights into the ancient cultures that inhabited the region, though definitive identification of Ash'teroth-karna'im has yet to be achieved.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Ash'teroth-karna'im in the Bible serves as a reminder of the historical reality of the patriarchal narratives and the complex interactions between the people of God and the surrounding nations. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty over history, as God orchestrates events to fulfill His purposes, even amidst the tumultuous political landscape of the ancient world.
Concordance
Ash'teroth-karna'im (1 Occurrence)

Genesis 14:5
And in the fourteenth year came Chedorlaomer and the kings that were with him, and smote the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, and the Zuzim in Ham, and the Emim in Shaveh-kiriathaim,
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Ash'teroth-karna'im (1 Occurrence)
Ash'teroth-karna'im. Ashteroth-karnaim, Ash'teroth-karna'im. Ashtoreth .
Multi-Version Concordance Ash'teroth-karna'im (1 Occurrence). ...
/a/ash'teroth-karna'im.htm - 6k

Ashteroth-karnaim (1 Occurrence)
Ashteroth-karnaim. Ashterothkarnaim, Ashteroth-karnaim. Ash'teroth-karna'im .
Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASHTAROTH; ASHTEROTH-KARNAIM; BEESHTERAH. ...
/a/ashteroth-karnaim.htm - 12k

Ashtoreth (3 Occurrences)

/a/ashtoreth.htm - 14k

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Ash'teroth-karna'im

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Ashteroth-Karnaim
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