The "Bay at the southern end of the Salt Sea" refers to a geographical feature mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of the boundaries of the Promised Land. The Salt Sea, known today as the Dead Sea, is a significant body of water located in the Jordan Rift Valley, bordered by modern-day Israel and Jordan. The bay at its southern end is a notable landmark in biblical descriptions of territorial boundaries.

Biblical References:

The primary biblical reference to this bay is found in the Book of Numbers, where it is mentioned as part of the delineation of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel. Numbers 34:3 states: "Your southern border will stretch from the Wilderness of Zin along the boundary of Edom, on the south end of the Salt Sea." This passage highlights the bay as a critical point in defining the southern boundary of the land promised to the Israelites.

Geographical Context:

The Salt Sea, or Dead Sea, is the lowest point on Earth's surface, lying over 400 meters below sea level. It is renowned for its high salinity, which prevents most aquatic life from thriving, hence its name. The bay at the southern end is part of the larger geological and hydrological system of the region, which includes the Jordan River and the surrounding desert landscapes.

Historical and Theological Significance:

In biblical times, the Salt Sea and its surrounding areas were significant for several reasons. Theologically, the boundaries of the Promised Land were divinely ordained, and the bay at the southern end of the Salt Sea served as a tangible marker of God's covenant with the Israelites. The precise delineation of these borders underscored the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land their descendants would inherit.

Historically, the region around the Salt Sea was home to various ancient peoples, including the Edomites and Moabites. The bay's location near these territories made it a strategic point for trade and military campaigns. The proximity to the Wilderness of Zin also connects it to the Israelites' wilderness wanderings, as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Archaeological Insights:

Modern archaeological studies have provided insights into the ancient settlements and trade routes in the region surrounding the Salt Sea. Excavations have uncovered evidence of early human habitation, agriculture, and commerce, shedding light on the historical context of the biblical narrative. These findings help to corroborate the biblical descriptions of the land and its boundaries.

Cultural Impact:

The bay at the southern end of the Salt Sea continues to hold cultural and religious significance for Jews, Christians, and others who view the biblical lands as sacred. Pilgrimages and tours often include visits to the Dead Sea region, where the natural beauty and historical resonance offer a tangible connection to the biblical past.

In summary, the bay at the southern end of the Salt Sea is a key geographical feature in the biblical account of the Promised Land's boundaries. Its mention in Scripture underscores the importance of land and covenant in the biblical narrative, while its historical and archaeological context enriches our understanding of the ancient Near East.