Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Esh'ta-ol, a name of uncertain meaning, is often associated with the idea of "entreaty" or "request." It is a place of significant historical and biblical importance, particularly in the context of the tribe of Dan and the narrative of Samson. Biblical References: Esh'ta-ol is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the allotment of land to the tribe of Dan. Joshua 19:41 states, "The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Esh'ta-ol, Ir-shemesh." This indicates its location within the tribal boundaries of Dan, near the border with Judah. Esh'ta-ol is notably linked to the account of Samson, one of the judges of Israel. Judges 13:25 records, "And the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him while he was in Mahaneh-dan, between Zorah and Esh'ta-ol." This passage highlights Esh'ta-ol as a place where the Spirit of the Lord began to move Samson, marking the beginning of his divinely appointed mission against the Philistines. Furthermore, Esh'ta-ol is mentioned in the context of Samson's burial. Judges 16:31 notes, "Then his brothers and his father's whole family went down, carried him back, and buried him between Zorah and Esh'ta-ol in the tomb of his father Manoah." This indicates the familial and tribal significance of the location, serving as the final resting place of one of Israel's most famous judges. Historical and Geographical Context: Esh'ta-ol was situated in the Shephelah, the lowland region of ancient Israel, characterized by its fertile valleys and strategic location. The proximity of Esh'ta-ol to Zorah, another significant biblical site, underscores its importance in the tribal narratives of Dan. The area was known for its agricultural productivity and served as a buffer zone between the coastal Philistine territories and the central highlands of Judah and Benjamin. Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological efforts have identified Esh'ta-ol with the site of Tel Esh'ta'ol, located in the present-day region of Israel. Excavations have revealed evidence of continuous settlement from the Canaanite period through the Israelite monarchy, including fortifications, domestic structures, and agricultural installations. These findings provide a tangible connection to the biblical narrative and offer insights into the daily life and culture of its ancient inhabitants. Theological Significance: Esh'ta-ol holds theological significance as a place where God's Spirit began to move in Samson, setting the stage for his role as a judge and deliverer of Israel. The narrative of Samson's life, marked by his Nazirite vow and his struggles with personal weaknesses, serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the potential for divine empowerment despite human frailty. In the broader biblical context, Esh'ta-ol represents the challenges faced by the tribe of Dan in securing their inheritance and the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the Philistines. It serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama of Israel's history during the period of the judges, highlighting themes of faith, obedience, and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. Concordance Esh'ta-ol (6 Occurrences)Joshua 19:41 Judges 13:25 Judges 16:31 Judges 18:2 Judges 18:8 Judges 18:11 Thesaurus Esh'ta-ol (6 Occurrences)Esh'ta-ol. Eshtaol, Esh'ta-ol. Eshta'ol . Multi-Version Concordance Esh'ta-ol (6 Occurrences). Joshua 19:41 And the border of their ... /e/esh'ta-ol.htm - 8k Eshtaol (7 Occurrences) Eshta'ol (1 Occurrence) Eshtaolites (1 Occurrence) Eshtaulites (1 Occurrence) Danites (15 Occurrences) Mano'ah (14 Occurrences) Ma'haneh-dan (2 Occurrences) Stir (57 Occurrences) E'phraim (146 Occurrences) Resources Who was Belial? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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