Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Enmishpat, meaning "spring of judgment," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name reflects its significance as a place of decision or judgment, possibly due to its association with legal or judicial activities in ancient times. Biblical References Enmishpat is referenced in Genesis 14:7, where it is identified with Kadesh. The passage describes the military campaign of Chedorlaomer and his allies, who defeated various groups in the region, including the Amalekites and the Amorites. The verse states: "Then they turned back and came to Enmishpat (that is, Kadesh), and they conquered the whole territory of the Amalekites, as well as the Amorites who were living in Hazazon-tamar" (Genesis 14:7). Geographical Location Enmishpat is equated with Kadesh, also known as Kadesh-barnea, a significant site in the biblical narrative. Kadesh is located in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula, near the border of Canaan. It served as an important encampment for the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The association with a spring suggests that Enmishpat was a place with a water source, which would have been crucial for sustaining life in the arid region. Historical and Theological Significance Enmishpat's identification with Kadesh links it to several key events in Israel's history. Kadesh was a central location during the Israelites' 40-year journey in the wilderness. It was from Kadesh that Moses sent the twelve spies to scout the Promised Land (Numbers 13:26). The site also witnessed the rebellion of the Israelites when they refused to enter Canaan, resulting in their prolonged desert sojourn (Numbers 14:1-4). Theologically, Enmishpat/Kadesh represents a place of testing and decision. It was here that the Israelites faced critical moments of faith and obedience. The name "spring of judgment" underscores the idea of divine judgment and decision-making, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and justice. Cultural Context In the ancient Near East, springs and water sources were often associated with divine encounters and judgments. The presence of a spring at Enmishpat would have made it a natural gathering place for people and a site for significant events. The biblical narrative emphasizes the importance of such locations in God's unfolding plan for His people. Conclusion While Enmishpat is mentioned only briefly in the Bible, its identification with Kadesh highlights its importance in the narrative of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. As a "spring of judgment," it serves as a reminder of the critical decisions and divine judgments that shaped the destiny of God's chosen people. Smith's Bible Dictionary Enmishpat(fount of judgment). (Genesis 14:7) [KADESH, KADESHBARNEA] International Standard Bible Encyclopedia EN-MISHPATen-mish'-pat. Thesaurus Enmishpat (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia EN-MISHPAT. en-mish'-pat. See KADESH. Multi-Version Concordance Enmishpat (1 Occurrence). Genesis ... /e/enmishpat.htm - 6k Enmish'pat (1 Occurrence) Enlisted (1 Occurrence) En-mishpat (1 Occurrence) Amraphel (2 Occurrences) Smote (281 Occurrences) Hazezontamar (1 Occurrence) Dwelt (307 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Enmishpat (1 Occurrence)Genesis 14:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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