Topical Encyclopedia In biblical geography, the term "foothills" refers to the transitional zone between the flat plains and the mountainous regions. This area is often characterized by rolling hills and gentle slopes, serving as a natural buffer between the lowlands and the more rugged terrain of the mountains. The foothills play a significant role in the biblical narrative, both geographically and symbolically.Geographical Significance The foothills, known in Hebrew as the "Shephelah," are particularly prominent in the land of Israel. This region lies between the coastal plains and the central highlands, stretching from the area near the Philistine cities to the hill country of Judah. The Shephelah was a fertile area, conducive to agriculture and settlement, and served as a strategic location for trade and military campaigns. Biblical References The foothills are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible. In Joshua 10:40, the conquest of the land by the Israelites includes the defeat of the inhabitants of the hill country, the Negev, the western foothills, and the mountain slopes: "So Joshua struck the whole land—the hill country, the Negev, the foothills, and the slopes, with all their kings, leaving no survivors. He devoted to destruction everything that breathed, just as the LORD, the God of Israel, had commanded" . The Shephelah was also a site of conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines. In 1 Samuel 17, the famous battle between David and Goliath took place in the Valley of Elah, which is part of the foothills region. This area served as a battleground due to its strategic importance and accessibility. Symbolic Meaning Symbolically, the foothills can represent a place of transition and preparation. Just as the physical foothills serve as a transition from the plains to the mountains, they can also symbolize spiritual preparation and growth. The Israelites' journey through the foothills can be seen as a metaphor for their spiritual journey and the challenges they faced in moving from a place of comfort to one of greater spiritual elevation. Cultural and Historical Context The foothills were home to various Canaanite and Philistine cities, which were often in conflict with the Israelites. The region's fertile land made it an attractive area for settlement and agriculture, contributing to its historical significance. The Shephelah's location made it a crossroads of cultures and a focal point for trade routes, further emphasizing its importance in the biblical narrative. In summary, the foothills in the Bible are not only a geographical feature but also a significant element in the historical and spiritual journey of the Israelites. They serve as a backdrop for key events and symbolize the transitional phases of life and faith. Strong's Hebrew 8219. shephelah -- lowland... Word Origin from shaphel Definition lowland NASB Word Usage foothills (1), lowland (17), Shephelah (2). low country, low plain, vale. ... /hebrew/8219.htm - 6k Library That More Might be Given and Gotten. Off to vienna Letters Written from Rocca D'Orcia Chapter xxxviii The Rewards of the Trading Servants A Nation's Struggle for a Home and Freedom. The Census and the Journey of the Holy Family Thesaurus Foothills (19 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Foothills (19 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 1:7 turn, and take your journey, and go to the hill country of ... /f/foothills.htm - 12k Lowland (34 Occurrences) Features (3 Occurrences) Lebanon (66 Occurrences) Natural (49 Occurrences) Ulai (2 Occurrences) Lycaonia (2 Occurrences) Lachish (22 Occurrences) Gebal (3 Occurrences) Foothold (3 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Mount Ebal in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the Negev in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Foothills: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Foothills (19 Occurrences)Deuteronomy 1:7 Joshua 9:1 Joshua 10:40 Joshua 11:2 Joshua 11:16 Joshua 12:8 Joshua 15:33 Judges 1:9 1 Kings 10:27 1 Chronicles 27:28 2 Chronicles 1:15 2 Chronicles 9:27 2 Chronicles 26:10 2 Chronicles 28:18 Jeremiah 17:26 Jeremiah 32:44 Jeremiah 33:13 Obadiah 1:19 Zechariah 7:7 Subtopics Related Terms |