Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Dab'besheth" is derived from the Hebrew root "דַּבֶּשֶׁת" (dabbesheth), which is often understood to mean "hump" or "back." This term is associated with a geographical location rather than a personal name.

Biblical References:
Dab'besheth is mentioned in the context of the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Zebulun. The specific reference to Dab'besheth can be found in the Old Testament, in the Book of Joshua. The passage delineates the borders of the land allotted to the tribe of Zebulun among the twelve tribes of Israel.

· Joshua 19:11 : "Their border went up westward to Maralah, reached Dabbesheth, and extended to the brook east of Jokneam."

Geographical Context:
Dab'besheth is noted as a landmark in the delineation of Zebulun's territory. The location is situated in the northern part of ancient Israel, within the region that was allocated to the tribe of Zebulun. The precise identification of Dab'besheth in modern geographical terms remains uncertain, as it is not prominently featured in other historical or archaeological records. However, its mention alongside other identifiable locations such as Maralah and Jokneam provides some context for its approximate location.

Historical and Theological Significance:
The mention of Dab'besheth in the Book of Joshua is part of the broader narrative of the Israelites' conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, including Zebulun, is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the inheritance of the land (Genesis 15:18-21). The detailed description of boundaries, including landmarks like Dab'besheth, underscores the importance of land inheritance in the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Theologically, the division of the land among the tribes is significant as it represents the establishment of Israel as a nation under God's sovereignty. Each tribe's inheritance was not only a matter of territorial possession but also a reflection of divine providence and order. The specific mention of locations such as Dab'besheth serves to authenticate the historical and geographical reality of the biblical narrative.

Cultural and Archaeological Insights:
While Dab'besheth itself has not been conclusively identified in modern archaeological studies, the broader region of Zebulun has been the subject of various excavations and research. These studies provide insights into the ancient culture, economy, and society of the Israelites during the period of settlement. The mention of Dab'besheth contributes to the understanding of the tribal divisions and the significance of land in ancient Israelite culture.

In summary, Dab'besheth is a minor yet integral part of the biblical account of the division of the Promised Land. Its mention in the Book of Joshua highlights the meticulous nature of the territorial boundaries and the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham.Dab'besheth (1 Occurrence)

Joshua 19:11
And their border went up westward, even to Maralah, and reached to Dabbesheth; and it reached to the brook that is before Jokneam.
(See RSV)

Dab'besheth (1 Occurrence)
Dab'besheth. Dabbesheth, Dab'besheth. Daberath . Multi-Version Concordance
Dab'besheth (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:11 And their border ...
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Dabbesheth (1 Occurrence)

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Daberath (3 Occurrences)

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