Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Hadrach is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the prophetic book of Zechariah. The reference to Hadrach is found in Zechariah 9:1, which states: "A prophecy: The word of the LORD is against the land of Hadrach and will rest upon Damascus—for the eyes of men and all the tribes of Israel are on the LORD." Geographical Context The exact location of Hadrach is not definitively known, and it is not frequently mentioned in biblical or extrabiblical sources. However, it is generally understood to be a region or city in the vicinity of Damascus, in present-day Syria. The mention of Hadrach alongside Damascus suggests its significance in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East during the time of Zechariah's prophecy. Historical and Prophetic Significance The mention of Hadrach in Zechariah 9 is part of a larger oracle concerning the judgment of various nations surrounding Israel. This passage is often interpreted as a prophetic declaration of God's sovereignty over the nations and His intention to bring judgment upon them. The inclusion of Hadrach in this prophecy indicates its relevance in the divine plan and its role in the broader narrative of God's dealings with the nations. The prophecy against Hadrach, along with other cities such as Damascus, Tyre, and Sidon, reflects the historical context of the post-exilic period. During this time, the Jewish people were re-establishing themselves in the land of Israel after the Babylonian exile, and the surrounding nations were often seen as adversaries or potential threats to their security and religious identity. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the mention of Hadrach serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence and His active involvement in the affairs of nations. It underscores the belief that God is not only concerned with Israel but also with the entire world, holding all nations accountable to His divine standards. The prophecy against Hadrach and its neighboring regions illustrates the theme of divine justice and the ultimate fulfillment of God's purposes in history. Interpretative Challenges The scarcity of references to Hadrach in ancient texts presents challenges for biblical scholars and historians seeking to identify its precise location and historical context. Some have speculated that Hadrach may have been a lesser-known city-state or a district within a larger political entity. Despite these uncertainties, the prophetic message remains clear in its emphasis on God's judgment and the hope for eventual restoration and peace for His people. In summary, Hadrach is a location mentioned in the book of Zechariah as part of a prophetic oracle against various nations. Its inclusion in the biblical narrative highlights themes of divine judgment, sovereignty, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Israel and the world. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HadrachSmith's Bible Dictionary Hadrach(dwelling), a country of Syria, mentioned once only, by the prophet Zechariah. (Zechariah 9:1) The addition of the district, with its borders, is here generally stated; but the name itself seems to have wholly disappeared. It still remains unknown. Easton's Bible Dictionary The name of a country (Zechariah 9:1) which cannot be identified. Rawlinson would identify it with Edessa. He mentions that in the Assyrian inscriptions it is recorded that "Shalmanezer III. made two expeditions, the first against Damascus B.C. 773, and the second against Hadrach B.C. 772; and again that Asshurdanin-il II. made expeditions against Hadrach in B.C. 765 and 755." International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HADRACHha'-drak, had'-rak (chadhrakh): "The land of Hadrach" is mentioned only once in Scripture (Zechariah 9:1), and there it is grouped with Damascus, Hamath, Tyre and Sidon. It may be safely identified with the "Hatarikka" of the Assyrian inscriptions, against which Assur-dan III made expeditions in his 1st (772 B.C.), 8th and 18th years. It also appears in inscriptions of Tiglath-pileser III. They place it in the North of Lebanon. Strong's Hebrew 2317. Chadrak -- a region in Aram (Syria)... 2316, 2317. Chadrak. 2318 . a region in Aram (Syria). Transliteration: Chadrak Phonetic Spelling: (khad-rawk') Short Definition: Hadrach. ... Hadrach. ... /hebrew/2317.htm - 5k Library The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Thesaurus Hadrach (1 Occurrence)... made two expeditions, the first against Damascus BC 773, and the second against Hadrach BC 772; and again that Asshurdanin-il II. ...HADRACH. ... /h/hadrach.htm - 7k Hor (14 Occurrences) Syria (73 Occurrences) Hadst (43 Occurrences) Demmeseh (1 Occurrence) Calno (1 Occurrence) Calneh (2 Occurrences) Especially (23 Occurrences) Hador'am (4 Occurrences) Mount (311 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hadrach (1 Occurrence)Zechariah 9:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |