E'zion-Ge'ber is a significant location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, primarily recognized as a port city situated on the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, part of the Red Sea. This ancient city is noted for its strategic and economic importance during the biblical period, particularly in the narratives concerning the Israelites and their neighboring nations.

Biblical References:

E'zion-Ge'ber is first mentioned in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. In Numbers 33:35-36 , it is recorded as one of the stations where the Israelites camped during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land: "They set out from Abronah and camped at Ezion-geber. They set out from Ezion-geber and camped at Kadesh, in the Wilderness of Zin."

The city gains further prominence during the reign of King Solomon. In 1 Kings 9:26 , it is noted that Solomon built a fleet of ships at E'zion-Ge'ber: "King Solomon also built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth in Edom, on the shore of the Red Sea." This fleet was part of Solomon's extensive trade network, which brought wealth and resources to Israel, including gold from Ophir (1 Kings 9:28).

E'zion-Ge'ber is also mentioned in the context of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. In 1 Kings 22:48 , it is recorded that Jehoshaphat attempted to revive the maritime trade by building ships at E'zion-Ge'ber, but the venture was unsuccessful: "Jehoshaphat built ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir for gold, but they never set sail, because the ships were wrecked at Ezion-geber."

Historical and Geographical Context:

E'zion-Ge'ber's location made it a critical hub for trade and military endeavors. Situated near the modern-day city of Aqaba in Jordan, it served as a gateway for commerce between the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, and the Levant. The city's proximity to the copper mines of the Arabah Valley also contributed to its economic significance, as copper was a valuable resource in the ancient world.

Archaeological evidence suggests that E'zion-Ge'ber was a fortified city with facilities for shipbuilding and trade. Excavations in the region have uncovered remains that align with the biblical descriptions, including structures that may have been used for smelting copper.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, E'zion-Ge'ber represents God's provision and guidance for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It also illustrates the prosperity and reach of Solomon's kingdom, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel regarding wealth and influence.

The accounts of E'zion-Ge'ber in the Bible also serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by the kings of Israel and Judah in maintaining their reliance on God. Jehoshaphat's failed maritime venture underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance in all endeavors, as human efforts without God's blessing can lead to disappointment.

In summary, E'zion-Ge'ber is a testament to the historical and spiritual narratives of the Bible, reflecting the intersection of divine providence, human ambition, and the unfolding account of God's people.E'zion-Ge'ber (6 Occurrences)

Numbers 33:35
They traveled from Abronah, and encamped in Ezion Geber.
(See RSV)

Numbers 33:36
They traveled from Ezion Geber, and encamped in the wilderness of Zin (the same is Kadesh).
(See RSV)

1 Kings 9:26
King Solomon made a navy of ships in Ezion Geber, which is beside Eloth, on the shore of the Red Sea, in the land of Edom.
(See RSV)

1 Kings 22:48
Jehoshaphat made ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they didn't go; for the ships were broken at Ezion Geber.
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 8:17
Then went Solomon to Ezion Geber, and to Eloth, on the seashore in the land of Edom.
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 20:36
and he joined himself with him to make ships to go to Tarshish; and they made the ships in Ezion Geber.
(See RSV)

E'zion-Ge'ber (6 Occurrences)
E'zion-Ge'ber. Ezion-geber, E'zion-Ge'ber. Eznite . Multi-Version
Concordance E'zion-Ge'ber (6 Occurrences). Numbers 33:35 They ...
/e/e'zion-ge'ber.htm - 7k

Ezion-geber (6 Occurrences)
Ezion-geber. Eziongeber, Ezion-geber. E'zion-Ge'ber . Easton's Bible
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Eznite (1 Occurrence)

/e/eznite.htm - 7k

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