Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Ha'zor-hadat'tah, often translated as "New Hazor," is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name itself suggests a "new" or "renewed" version of Hazor, distinguishing it from the more prominent city of Hazor in northern Canaan. The term "Hazor" generally means "enclosure" or "fortress," indicating a place of strategic or defensive significance. Biblical References Ha'zor-hadat'tah is mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the territorial allotments given to the tribes of Israel. Specifically, it is listed among the cities in the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. In Joshua 15:25 , the text states: "Hazor-hadattah, Kerioth-hezron (that is, Hazor)." This reference places Ha'zor-hadat'tah within the Negev region, a semi-arid area in the southern part of ancient Israel. Historical and Geographical Context The Negev, where Ha'zor-hadat'tah is located, was a region of significant importance for the Israelites. It served as a buffer zone between the settled areas of Canaan and the desert lands to the south. The cities in this region, including Ha'zor-hadat'tah, were crucial for trade routes and military defense. The mention of Ha'zor-hadat'tah alongside other cities in Judah's allotment underscores its role in the broader settlement and fortification efforts of the Israelites as they established themselves in the Promised Land. Archaeological Insights While Ha'zor-hadat'tah itself has not been definitively identified in modern archaeology, its mention in the biblical text suggests it was a recognized settlement during the time of the Israelite conquest and settlement. The lack of specific archaeological evidence may be due to the transient nature of settlements in the Negev or the possibility that it was a smaller, less fortified site compared to other cities like the northern Hazor. Theological Significance The inclusion of Ha'zor-hadat'tah in the biblical narrative highlights the comprehensive nature of God's promise to the Israelites regarding the land of Canaan. Each city and region, including those less prominent like Ha'zor-hadat'tah, played a part in the fulfillment of the divine covenant. The allocation of land to the tribes, as seen in the Book of Joshua, reflects the ordered and purposeful plan of God for His people, emphasizing themes of inheritance, divine provision, and the establishment of a nation under God's law. Cultural and Religious Impact For the ancient Israelites, cities like Ha'zor-hadat'tah were more than just physical locations; they were integral to the identity and cohesion of the tribes. The distribution of land was a tangible expression of God's faithfulness and a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. The mention of such cities in Scripture serves to reinforce the historical reality of the biblical narrative and the deep connection between the Israelites and the land they were given. Concordance Ha'zor-hadat'tah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 15:25 Thesaurus Ha'zor-hadat'tah (1 Occurrence)Ha'zor-hadat'tah. Hazor-hadattah, Ha'zor-hadat'tah. Hazzebaim . Multi-Version Concordance Ha'zor-hadat'tah (1 Occurrence). Joshua ... /h/ha'zor-hadat'tah.htm - 6k Hazor-hadattah (1 Occurrence) Hazzebaim (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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