Topical Encyclopedia Geographical Location: En-ge'di, meaning "spring of the kid" or "fountain of the goat" in Hebrew, is an oasis located on the western shore of the Dead Sea. It is situated approximately midway between the cities of Jerusalem and Masada. The area is characterized by its lush vegetation and abundant water sources, which stand in stark contrast to the surrounding arid desert landscape. Biblical References: En-ge'di is mentioned several times in the Bible, primarily in the context of King David's life. In 1 Samuel 23:29, David sought refuge in the strongholds of En-ge'di while fleeing from King Saul. The text states, "And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of En-ge'di" . This location provided David with a strategic advantage due to its natural fortifications and resources. In 1 Samuel 24, En-ge'di is the setting for a significant encounter between David and Saul. While Saul was pursuing David, he entered a cave to relieve himself, unaware that David and his men were hiding deeper inside. David's men urged him to seize the opportunity to kill Saul, but David refrained, choosing instead to cut off a corner of Saul's robe. This act demonstrated David's respect for Saul's position as the Lord's anointed. After Saul left the cave, David revealed himself and showed the piece of the robe, proving his loyalty and integrity. This account highlights the moral and spiritual character of David, who chose to trust in God's timing rather than take matters into his own hands. En-ge'di is also mentioned in 2 Chronicles 20:2, where it is referred to as Hazazon-tamar. In this passage, it is the location from which a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites launched an attack against King Jehoshaphat of Judah. The text reads, "Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, 'A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Dead Sea. It is already in Hazazon-tamar' (that is, En-ge'di)" . This event led to Jehoshaphat's prayerful dependence on God, resulting in a miraculous victory for Judah. Historical and Cultural Significance: En-ge'di has been a site of human habitation and agriculture for thousands of years. Its perennial springs have supported various settlements and agricultural endeavors, including the cultivation of date palms and balsam, a plant used in ancient perfumes and medicines. The area's natural resources made it a valuable and strategic location throughout history. In addition to its biblical significance, En-ge'di has been associated with the Essenes, a Jewish sect that lived in the region during the Second Temple period. Some scholars suggest that En-ge'di may have been one of the Essenes' settlements, although this remains a topic of debate. Spiritual Lessons: The accounts of En-ge'di in the Bible offer several spiritual lessons. David's restraint and respect for Saul's anointed position serve as a powerful example of humility, patience, and faith in God's sovereignty. The account of Jehoshaphat's reliance on God in the face of overwhelming odds underscores the importance of prayer and trust in divine intervention. En-ge'di's lush oasis amidst a barren desert can also be seen as a metaphor for God's provision and sustenance in the midst of life's challenges. It reminds believers of the refreshment and renewal that come from seeking refuge in the Lord. Concordance En-ge'di (5 Occurrences)Joshua 15:62 1 Samuel 23:29 1 Samuel 24:1 2 Chronicles 20:2 Ezekiel 47:10 Thesaurus En-ge'di (5 Occurrences)En-ge'di. Enge'di, En-ge'di. Engine . Multi-Version Concordance En-ge'di (5 Occurrences). Joshua 15:62 and Nibshan, and the City ... /e/en-ge'di.htm - 7k En-gedi (6 Occurrences) Engedi (6 Occurrences) Enge'di (1 Occurrence) Engine Resources What is the importance of the Dead Sea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat will we be doing in Heaven? What will we do in Heaven? | GotQuestions.org What is the Cursillo movement? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |