Eg'lath-shelish'iyah
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Eglath-shelishiyah is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. The name is often translated as "a heifer of three years old" or "a three-year-old heifer," and it appears in a prophetic context. The term is mentioned in Isaiah 15:5, which reads in the Berean Standard Bible : "My heart cries out for Moab; her fugitives flee as far as Zoar, as far as Eglath-shelishiyah. They go up the hill to Luhith, weeping as they go; on the road to Horonaim they raise a cry of distress over their ruin."

Context and Interpretation

Eglath-shelishiyah is part of a prophecy concerning Moab, a nation often in conflict with Israel. The prophecy in Isaiah 15 describes the impending judgment and devastation that will come upon Moab. The mention of Eglath-shelishiyah is significant as it highlights the extent of Moab's distress and the far-reaching impact of the calamity. The term itself, "a three-year-old heifer," may symbolize something precious and valued, now in a state of vulnerability and lament.

Geographical and Historical Significance

The exact location of Eglath-shelishiyah is not definitively known, but it is associated with the region of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. The reference to Zoar, Luhith, and Horonaim in the same passage suggests that Eglath-shelishiyah was part of a route taken by Moabite refugees fleeing destruction. Historically, Moab was a neighbor and sometimes adversary of Israel, and the biblical narrative often reflects the tumultuous relationship between the two nations.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the mention of Eglath-shelishiyah in Isaiah's prophecy serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. The judgment pronounced upon Moab is consistent with the broader biblical theme of divine retribution against nations that oppose God's people or engage in idolatry and immorality. The imagery of a "three-year-old heifer" may also evoke themes of innocence and sacrifice, underscoring the gravity of Moab's impending judgment.

Literary Aspects

The use of Eglath-shelishiyah in Isaiah 15:5 is a vivid example of Hebrew prophetic literature, which often employs symbolic language and imagery to convey messages of warning and hope. The poetic structure of the passage, with its emphasis on weeping and distress, enhances the emotional impact of the prophecy and invites readers to reflect on the consequences of turning away from God.

In summary, Eglath-shelishiyah is a term rich in symbolic meaning, situated within a prophetic declaration against Moab. It serves as a poignant reminder of the themes of judgment, repentance, and the enduring sovereignty of God over the nations.
Concordance
Eg'lath-shelish'iyah (2 Occurrences)

Isaiah 15:5
My heart is crying out for Moab; her people go in flight to Zoar, and to Eglath-shelishiyah: for they go up with weeping by the slope of Luhith; on the way to Horonaim they send up a cry of destruction.
(See RSV)

Jeremiah 48:34
From the cry of Heshbon even to Elealeh, even to Jahaz have they uttered their voice, from Zoar even to Horonaim, to Eglath Shelishiyah: for the waters of Nimrim also shall become desolate.
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Eg'lath-shelish'iyah (2 Occurrences)
Eg'lath-shelish'iyah. Eglath-shelishiyah, Eg'lath-shelish'iyah. Eglath-shelishi-
yah . Multi-Version Concordance Eg'lath-shelish'iyah (2 Occurrences). ...
/e/eg'lath-shelish'iyah.htm - 7k

Eglath-shelishiyah (2 Occurrences)
Eglath-shelishiyah. Eglathshelishiyah, Eglath-shelishiyah. Eg'lath-shelish'
iyah . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia EGLATH-SHELISHIYAH. ...
/e/eglath-shelishiyah.htm - 8k

Eglath-shelishi-yah (1 Occurrence)
Eglath-shelishi-yah. Eg'lath-shelish'iyah, Eglath-shelishi-yah. Eglon .
Multi-Version Concordance Eglath-shelishi-yah (1 Occurrence). ...
/e/eglath-shelishi-yah.htm - 6k

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