Cinnereth
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Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Cinnereth" (also spelled "Chinnereth" or "Kinnereth") is believed to derive from the Hebrew word "kinnor," meaning "harp" or "lyre," possibly referring to the harp-like shape of the lake or region. It is associated with both a city and a body of water in the biblical narrative.

Biblical References:
Cinnereth is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament. It is first introduced in the context of the territorial boundaries of the Promised Land. In Numbers 34:11, the Berean Standard Bible states, "The border will go down from Shepham to Riblah on the east side of Ain and continue along the slopes east of the Sea of Chinnereth." This reference highlights its geographical significance as a landmark in the delineation of Israel's borders.

In Deuteronomy 3:17, Cinnereth is mentioned as part of the land given to the tribes of Israel: "the Arabah also, with the Jordan as its border, from Chinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, below the slopes of Pisgah on the east." This passage underscores its importance in the allocation of tribal territories.

Joshua 11:2 and 12:3 also refer to Cinnereth in the context of military campaigns and conquests, indicating its strategic importance in the region.

Geographical Significance:
Cinnereth is often identified with the Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias or Lake Kinneret in modern times. This freshwater lake is situated in the northeastern part of Israel and is a significant geographical feature in both ancient and modern contexts. The lake is approximately 13 miles long and 8 miles wide, making it the largest freshwater lake in Israel.

The surrounding region, known as the Plain of Cinnereth, is fertile and was historically significant for agriculture and settlement. The area played a crucial role in the economy and sustenance of the local population.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In biblical times, the region around Cinnereth was a hub of activity and trade. The lake itself provided a source of fish, which was a staple in the diet of the inhabitants. The fertile plains supported agriculture, contributing to the prosperity of the area.

Cinnereth's strategic location made it a focal point for various military campaigns, as evidenced by its mention in the accounts of Joshua's conquests. The region's significance continued into the New Testament era, where the Sea of Galilee became the backdrop for many events in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Theological Implications:
Cinnereth, as part of the Promised Land, holds theological significance in the narrative of God's covenant with Israel. The allocation of land, including the area around Cinnereth, is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the descendants of Abraham.

The Sea of Galilee, identified with Cinnereth, is central to the New Testament narrative, where Jesus performed miracles, taught the multitudes, and called His first disciples. This connection underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Conclusion:
While the entry does not include a conclusion, it is evident that Cinnereth holds a multifaceted role in biblical history, geography, and theology. Its mention in Scripture highlights its importance as a landmark, a resource, and a testament to God's ongoing relationship with His people.
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A harp, one of the "fenced cities" of Naphtali (Joshua 19:35; Comp. Deuteronomy 3:17). It also denotes, apparently, a district which may have taken its name from the adjacent city or lake of Gennesaret, anciently called "the sea of Chinnereth" (q.v.), and was probably that enclosed district north of Tiberias afterwards called "the plain of Gennesaret." Called Chinneroth (R.V., Chinnereth) Joshua 11:2. The phrase "all Cinneroth, with all the land of Naphtali" in 1 Kings 15:20 is parallel to "the store-houses of the cities of Naphtali" (R.V. marg.) in 2 Chronicles 16:4.
Thesaurus
Cinnereth

/c/cinnereth.htm - 7k

Cinnamon (4 Occurrences)

/c/cinnamon.htm - 10k

Cinneroth (4 Occurrences)

/c/cinneroth.htm - 8k

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Cinnamon: An Ingredient of the Sacred Oil
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