Topical Encyclopedia The term "Garden-house" appears in the context of biblical narratives, specifically in the Old Testament. It is a term that denotes a place associated with gardens, which were often seen as places of beauty, sustenance, and sometimes refuge. In the ancient Near Eastern context, gardens were not only practical for growing food but also held aesthetic and symbolic significance.Biblical Reference: The Garden-house is mentioned in 2 Kings 9:27. The passage describes the events surrounding the death of Ahaziah, king of Judah. As Jehu executed his divinely appointed mission to eradicate the house of Ahab, Ahaziah fled: "When King Ahaziah of Judah saw this, he fled up the road to Beth-haggan. Jehu pursued him, shouting, 'Shoot him too!' So they shot Ahaziah in his chariot on the way up to Gur, near Ibleam. But he escaped to Megiddo and died there." (2 Kings 9:27) In this context, "Beth-haggan" is translated as "Garden-house" in some versions, indicating a location that was likely characterized by its gardens. The Garden-house served as a point of reference in Ahaziah's flight, suggesting it was a notable landmark or estate. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, gardens were often associated with royal estates and could serve as places of retreat and relaxation for kings and nobles. The presence of a Garden-house in the narrative of Ahaziah's flight underscores the strategic and symbolic importance of such locations. Gardens were not only practical for their agricultural yield but also represented a microcosm of order and beauty, reflecting the divine order of creation. The Garden-house, therefore, may have been part of a larger estate or a royal property, providing a temporary refuge for Ahaziah during his escape. Its mention in the biblical text highlights the interconnectedness of geography, politics, and divine providence in the unfolding of Israel's history. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of the Garden-house in the narrative of Ahaziah's demise serves as a reminder of the fulfillment of God's judgment against the house of Ahab. The pursuit and eventual death of Ahaziah illustrate the inescapable nature of divine justice. The Garden-house, while a place of temporary refuge, could not ultimately shield Ahaziah from the consequences of his alliances and actions. In the broader biblical narrative, gardens often symbolize a return to Edenic ideals or a place of divine-human interaction. However, in this instance, the Garden-house becomes a backdrop for the execution of divine judgment, contrasting the peace and beauty typically associated with gardens with the harsh realities of sin and its repercussions. Conclusion: The Garden-house, as referenced in 2 Kings 9:27, serves as a geographical and symbolic element within the biblical narrative. It reflects the cultural significance of gardens in ancient Israel and underscores the themes of divine justice and the futility of seeking refuge apart from God's will. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GARDEN-HOUSE(beth ha-gan): Library The Rash Builder The Farewell Pilate and his Wife. Six Years in North Bengal --Missionary and Indigo Planter The Census and the Journey of the Holy Family Thesaurus Gardenhouse... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GARDEN-HOUSE. (beth ha-gan): A place mentioned in describing the flight of Ahaziah, king of Judah, from Jehu (2 Kings 9:27). ... /g/gardenhouse.htm - 6k Garden-house (1 Occurrence) Beth-haggan (1 Occurrence) Gardener (4 Occurrences) Gardens (14 Occurrences) Garden (68 Occurrences) Jibleam (1 Occurrence) Gur (2 Occurrences) Ibleam (4 Occurrences) Resources Is it wrong to kill spiders or step on bugs? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Ezekiel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Questions about Luke | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Garden-house (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 9:27 Subtopics Related Terms |
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