Topical Encyclopedia Eglath-shelishi-yah 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-shelishi-yah. 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-shelishi-yah is part of a prophecy concerning Moab, a nation often in conflict with Israel. The prophecy in Isaiah 15 and 16 is a lament over the impending judgment and destruction that Moab will face. The mention of Eglath-shelishi-yah is significant in illustrating the depth of Moab's distress and the extent of their flight from destruction. The imagery of a "three-year-old heifer" suggests a sense of innocence and vulnerability, emphasizing the calamity that has befallen Moab. Geographical and Historical Significance The exact location of Eglath-shelishi-yah is not definitively known, but it is associated with the region of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. The reference to Zoar, a city near the southern end of the Dead Sea, provides a geographical marker that helps situate Eglath-shelishi-yah within the broader landscape of Moabite territory. Historically, Moab was a neighbor and sometimes adversary of Israel, and the prophetic literature often addresses the fate of Moab in relation to its interactions with God's chosen people. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the mention of Eglath-shelishi-yah in Isaiah's prophecy serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the nations. The prophecy against Moab underscores the theme of divine judgment against those who oppose God's will and the protection of His covenant people. The imagery of the fleeing Moabites, including the reference to Eglath-shelishi-yah, highlights the futility of resisting God's decrees and the ultimate justice that He administers. Literary and Symbolic Elements The use of the term Eglath-shelishi-yah in Isaiah is rich with literary and symbolic meaning. The heifer, a symbol of agricultural prosperity and innocence, contrasts sharply with the devastation described in the prophecy. This juxtaposition serves to heighten the emotional impact of the lament and to convey the totality of Moab's downfall. The prophetic literature often employs such vivid imagery to communicate the seriousness of God's messages and to call the audience to reflection and repentance. In summary, Eglath-shelishi-yah is a poignant element within the prophetic narrative of Isaiah, encapsulating themes of judgment, vulnerability, and the far-reaching consequences of turning away from God's commands. Concordance Eglath-shelishi-yah (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 15:5 Thesaurus Eglathshelishiyah/e/eglathshelishiyah.htm - 7k Eglath-shelishi-yah (1 Occurrence) Eglath-shelishiyah (2 Occurrences) Eglon (13 Occurrences) Eg'lath-shelish'iyah (2 Occurrences) Eglath-sheli-shijah (1 Occurrence) Crieth (47 Occurrences) Reach (63 Occurrences) Resources What are the different names of God, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the name “Jesus” actually mean “Hail, Zeus”? | GotQuestions.org What is YHWH? What is the tetragrammaton? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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