Topical Encyclopedia Hapharaim is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the territorial allotments of the tribes of Israel. It is referenced in the Book of Joshua as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Issachar. The name "Hapharaim" is believed to mean "two pits" or "double pit," which may indicate a geographical feature or characteristic of the area.Biblical Reference: · Joshua 19:19 : "Hapharaim, Shion, Anaharath," In this passage, Hapharaim is listed among the towns within the territory assigned to the tribe of Issachar. The context of this verse is the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel, as orchestrated by Joshua following the conquest of Canaan. The specific mention of Hapharaim, along with other towns, underscores the detailed nature of these territorial boundaries and the importance of land inheritance in Israelite society. Historical and Geographical Context: The exact location of Hapharaim is not definitively known today, and it is not prominently featured in other biblical narratives or historical records. However, its inclusion in the list of towns within Issachar's territory suggests it was a recognized settlement during the time of the conquest and settlement of Canaan. The region of Issachar was situated in the northern part of the land of Israel, bordered by the tribes of Zebulun, Naphtali, Manasseh, and Asher. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Hapharaim, like other towns in the tribal allotments, highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land of Canaan. The detailed distribution of land among the tribes is a testament to God's faithfulness and the realization of His covenant with Israel. Each town and region, including Hapharaim, represents a piece of the larger divine plan for the nation of Israel. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly associated with Hapharaim, the study of ancient Israelite settlements provides insight into the lifestyle and culture of the inhabitants during the biblical period. Towns like Hapharaim would have been part of a network of agricultural communities, contributing to the sustenance and economy of the tribe of Issachar. The name itself, suggesting "two pits," may indicate the presence of water sources or storage facilities, which were crucial for survival in the ancient Near East. In summary, Hapharaim is a minor yet integral part of the biblical narrative concerning the division of the Promised Land. Its mention in the Book of Joshua serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual journey of the Israelites as they established themselves in the land given to them by God. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HapharaimInternational Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAPHARAIMhaf-a'-ra'-im (chapharayim; the King James Version Haphraim, haf-ra'im, possibly "place of a moat"): A town in the territory of Issachar, named with Shunem and Anaharath (Joshua 19:19). Eusebius, Onomasticon identifies it with "Affarea," and places it 6 miles North of Legio-Megiddo. This position corresponds with that of the modern el-Ferriyeh, an ancient site with remarkable tombs Northwest of el-Lejjun. Strong's Hebrew 2663a. Chapharayim -- a place in Issachar... 2663, 2663a. Chapharayim. 2663b . a place in Issachar. Transliteration: Chapharayim Short Definition: Hapharaim. Word Origin from ... /hebrew/2663a.htm - 5k Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Thesaurus Hapharaim (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAPHARAIM. ...Hapharaim (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:19 Hapharaim, Shion, Anaharath, (WEB JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS NIV). ... /h/hapharaim.htm - 7k Shion (1 Occurrence) Haph'ara-im (1 Occurrence) Hap (1 Occurrence) Ana'harath (1 Occurrence) Anaharath (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hapharaim (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:19 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |