Emekkeziz
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Definition and Meaning:
Emekkeziz is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Joshua. The name "Emekkeziz" is derived from Hebrew, where "Emek" means "valley" and "Keziz" is often interpreted as "cut off" or "incision." Thus, Emekkeziz can be understood as the "Valley of Keziz" or "Valley of the Cut Off."

Biblical Reference:
Emekkeziz is referenced in the context of the territorial allotments to the tribes of Israel. It is mentioned in Joshua 18:21, which details the inheritance of the tribe of Benjamin. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads:

"Now the cities of the tribe of Benjamin according to their clans were: Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz,"

Geographical Context:
Emekkeziz is listed among the cities and locations that were part of the inheritance of the tribe of Benjamin. The precise geographical location of Emekkeziz is not definitively known today, as it is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text or in other historical records. However, it is understood to be situated within the territory assigned to Benjamin, which was located in the central part of the land of Canaan, encompassing areas north of Jerusalem.

Historical and Theological Significance:
The mention of Emekkeziz in the Book of Joshua is part of the broader narrative of the Israelites' conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel is a significant event, as it represents the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the inheritance of the land of Canaan.

The allocation of specific territories to each tribe, including the mention of Emekkeziz, underscores the importance of land in the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The land was not only a physical inheritance but also a symbol of divine blessing and faithfulness. Each location, including Emekkeziz, contributed to the identity and heritage of the respective tribes.

Cultural and Archaeological Insights:
While Emekkeziz itself has not been identified archaeologically, the study of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua provides valuable insights into the ancient geography and settlement patterns of the Israelites. The tribal territories reflect the socio-political organization of ancient Israel and the importance of land distribution in maintaining tribal identity and cohesion.

Conclusion:
Emekkeziz, though briefly mentioned, is part of the intricate tapestry of biblical history and geography. Its inclusion in the list of cities within the territory of Benjamin highlights the detailed record-keeping and the significance of land in the biblical narrative. The study of such locations enriches our understanding of the historical and theological context of the Scriptures.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
EMEK-KEZIZ

e-mek-ke'-ziz (`emeq qetsits; the King James Version Valley of Keziz (Joshua 18:21)):

A town in Benjamin named between Beth-hoglah and Beth-arabah, and therefore to be sought in the plain, probably South of Jericho. The name has not been recovered.

Thesaurus
Emekkeziz

/e/emekkeziz.htm - 6k

Emek-keziz (1 Occurrence)
Emek-keziz. Emekkeziz, Emek-keziz. Emek-ke'ziz . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
EMEK-KEZIZ. ... Emekkeziz, Emek-keziz. Emek-ke'ziz . Reference Bible.
/e/emek-keziz.htm - 7k

Emek (2 Occurrences)

/e/emek.htm - 7k

Vale (20 Occurrences)
... 3:14); "vale of Elah" (margin "terebinth") (1 Samuel 17:2); "the King's Vale" (Genesis
14:17); but "the king's dale" (2 Samuel 18:18); "Emekkeziz," the King ...
/v/vale.htm - 29k

Valley (187 Occurrences)
... 3:14); "vale of Elah" (margin "terebinth") (1 Samuel 17:2); "the King's Vale" (Genesis
14:17); but "the king's dale" (2 Samuel 18:18); "Emekkeziz," the King ...
/v/valley.htm - 75k

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