Ashdoth Pisgah
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Definition and Meaning:
Ashdoth Pisgah, often referred to as the "slopes of Pisgah" or "springs of Pisgah," is a geographical term found in the Old Testament. The name "Pisgah" itself is associated with a mountain or range of hills in the region of Moab, east of the Jordan River. The term "Ashdoth" is derived from the Hebrew word meaning "slopes" or "springs," indicating the geographical features of the area.

Biblical References:
Ashdoth Pisgah is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. It is notably referenced in the Book of Deuteronomy and the Book of Joshua.

1. Deuteronomy 3:17 : "the Arabah also, with the Jordan as its border, from Kinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea), with the slopes of Pisgah on the east." This passage describes the territorial boundaries given to the tribes of Israel, with Ashdoth Pisgah marking a significant eastern boundary.

2. Deuteronomy 4:49 : "and all the Arabah on the east side of the Jordan, as far as the sea of the Arabah, below the slopes of Pisgah." Here, Ashdoth Pisgah is again mentioned as a landmark in the delineation of the land.

3. Joshua 12:3 : "from the Arabah to the Sea of Chinneroth on the east, to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea) on the east, toward Beth-jeshimoth, and southward below the slopes of Pisgah." This verse is part of a summary of the conquests of Moses and the Israelites, listing the territories and kings defeated.

Geographical Significance:
Ashdoth Pisgah is located in the region of Moab, which is present-day Jordan. The area is characterized by its rugged terrain and elevated landscapes, providing a strategic vantage point. The "slopes" or "springs" suggest a region with natural water sources, which would have been crucial for the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings.

Historical and Theological Context:
In the biblical narrative, Pisgah is most famously associated with Mount Nebo, where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death (Deuteronomy 34:1). The mention of Ashdoth Pisgah in the context of territorial boundaries underscores the importance of this region in the fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Abraham. The area served as a significant landmark during the Israelites' transition from their nomadic life in the wilderness to settling in the land God had promised them.

Cultural and Religious Importance:
For the Israelites, Ashdoth Pisgah represented not only a physical boundary but also a spiritual milestone. It was a place that marked the transition from the leadership of Moses to Joshua, symbolizing continuity in God's covenantal promises. The slopes of Pisgah, with their association with Moses' final moments, hold a place of reverence and reflection on God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

Conclusion:
While Ashdoth Pisgah may not be as frequently mentioned as other biblical locations, its significance lies in its role as a geographical and spiritual landmark in the narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. The references to Ashdoth Pisgah in the Bible highlight the importance of understanding the physical and spiritual landscapes that shaped the history and faith of the Israelite people.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
Ashdoth Pisgah

ASHDOTH PISGAH

ash'-doth piz'-ga ('ashdoth ha-picgah): Thus the King James Version for the Revised Version (British and American) "The slopes (the Revised Version, margin springs) of Pisgah." The spurs and ravines, or the "shoulders" of Pisgah are meant. 'Ashedah is "a pouring out," and 'ashedoth are the slopes of a mountain from which springs gush forth. In Joshua 10:40; Joshua 12:8, 'Ashedoth, translated "springs" in the King James Version, is "slopes" in the Revised Version (British and American) (Deuteronomy 3:17 Joshua 12:3; Joshua 13:20). See PISGAH.

Strong's Hebrew
798. Ashdoth Happisgah -- Ashdoth-pisgah
... Ashdoth-pisgah. Transliteration: Ashdoth Happisgah Phonetic Spelling: (ash-doth'
hap-pis-gaw') Short Definition: Ashdoth-pisgah. ... Ashdoth-pisgah ...
/hebrew/798.htm - 6k
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