Topical Encyclopedia The term "East Country" in the Bible generally refers to the regions lying to the east of Israel. This area is significant in biblical history and theology, as it encompasses lands and peoples that frequently interacted with the Israelites. The East Country is often associated with the territories of the Arabian Desert, Mesopotamia, and parts of modern-day Jordan and Syria.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 25:6 · "But while he was still living, Abraham gave gifts to the sons of his concubines and sent them away from his son Isaac to the land of the east." This passage indicates that the East Country was a destination for the descendants of Abraham's concubines, suggesting it was a place of settlement and possibly a region of relative safety or opportunity. 2. Judges 6:3 · "Whenever the Israelites planted their crops, the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples invaded the country." Here, the "eastern peoples" are depicted as invaders, highlighting the East Country as a source of threat and conflict for Israel during the time of the Judges. 3. Job 1:3 · "He owned seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred female donkeys, and he had a large number of servants. He was the greatest man among all the people of the East." Job is described as a prominent figure in the East Country, indicating the wealth and social structure present in this region. Cultural and Historical Context: The East Country was home to various tribes and nations, including the Midianites, Amalekites, and others. These groups often had complex relationships with the Israelites, ranging from trade and alliances to conflict and warfare. The East Country's proximity to Israel made it a significant area for both cultural exchange and military encounters. The region was known for its nomadic tribes, who were skilled in animal husbandry and trade. The East Country's inhabitants were often seen as wise men, as suggested by the visit of the Magi from the east in the New Testament (Matthew 2:1). This association with wisdom and knowledge is a recurring theme in biblical literature. Theological Significance: The East Country serves as a backdrop for several biblical narratives that illustrate themes of obedience, blessing, and judgment. Abraham's decision to send his sons to the east reflects a desire to protect the covenant line through Isaac, while the invasions from the east during the time of the Judges serve as a divine instrument of discipline for Israel's disobedience. In prophetic literature, the East Country is sometimes mentioned in the context of eschatological events. For example, in Ezekiel 43:2, the glory of the God of Israel comes from the east, symbolizing divine presence and intervention. Overall, the East Country is a multifaceted region in the biblical narrative, representing both the challenges and opportunities faced by the people of Israel in their historical and spiritual journey. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia East CountryEAST COUNTRY kun'-tri ('erets mizrach): Strong's Hebrew 6152. Arab -- "steppe-dwellers," a country East of Isr.... 6151, 6152. Arab. 6152a . "steppe-dwellers," a country East of Isr. Transliteration: Arab Phonetic Spelling: (ar-awb') Short Definition: Arabia. Arabia ... /hebrew/6152.htm - 5k 6152b. Arab -- "a desert plateau," a country East of Isr. 6152a. Arab -- "steppe-dwellers," a country East of Isr. 5983. Ammon -- a people living East of the Jordan Library The Great Gain of Godliness The Nations of the South-East The Nations of the North-East Chapter xxv Preface. The Story of Adam and Eve Introduction A Sight of Judea How Coinred, King of the Mercians, and Offa, King of the East ... A Greater than Solomon Resources Should Israel be building settlements in the occupied territories, i.e., the West Bank and East Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org What was the Great Schism? | GotQuestions.org East: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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