Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Harod" is derived from the Hebrew root "charad," which means "to tremble" or "to be afraid." This etymology is fitting given the historical and biblical context associated with the location. Biblical References: Harod is primarily mentioned in the context of the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. The most notable reference is found in Judges 7:1, which states: "Early in the morning Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) and all his men camped beside the spring of Harod, while the camp of Midian was north of them, in the valley near the hill of Moreh" . This passage sets the stage for the famous battle where Gideon, with a divinely reduced army of 300 men, defeats the Midianites. Geographical Location: The spring of Harod is traditionally identified with the modern-day 'Ain Jalud, located in the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel. This area is characterized by its fertile land and strategic location, making it a significant site for various historical and biblical events. The spring itself is a natural water source, which would have been crucial for sustaining Gideon's troops. Historical and Theological Significance: The spring of Harod is significant in biblical history as the site where God tested Gideon's army. In Judges 7:4-7, God instructs Gideon to bring his men to the water, where He would further reduce their numbers based on how they drank. This divine selection process was intended to demonstrate that Israel's victory over the Midianites was due to God's power rather than human strength or numbers. The account of Gideon at Harod serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of faith and obedience. Cultural Context: During the time of the Judges, Israel was a loose confederation of tribes often oppressed by surrounding nations. The Midianites, in particular, were a nomadic people who frequently raided Israelite territory. The victory at Harod, therefore, was not just a military triumph but also a spiritual and cultural turning point for the Israelites, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people. Archaeological Insights: While there is limited direct archaeological evidence specifically linked to the biblical account of Harod, the region around the Jezreel Valley has been extensively studied. Excavations have revealed settlements and artifacts from the period of the Judges, providing a broader understanding of the historical context in which the events of Judges 7 occurred. Symbolism and Lessons: The account of Harod and Gideon's victory is often cited in Christian teachings as an example of God's ability to use the weak and the few to accomplish His purposes. It underscores themes of trust, divine intervention, and the futility of relying solely on human strength. The narrative encourages believers to seek God's guidance and to remain faithful, even when circumstances seem daunting. In summary, Harod is a site of profound biblical importance, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. The events that transpired there continue to inspire and instruct believers in their spiritual journey. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HarodSmith's Bible Dictionary Harod(fear), The well of, a spring by which Gideon and his great army encamped on the morning of the day which ended in the rout of the Midianites. (Judges 7:1) and where the trial of the people by their mode of drinking apparently took place. The Ain Jalud is very suitable to the circumstances, as being at present the largest spring in the neighborhood. ATS Bible Dictionary HarodA spring near Jezreel and mount Gilboa, Jud 7:1; 2 Samuel 23:25. Easton's Bible Dictionary Palpitation, a fountain near which Gideon and his army encamped on the morning of the day when they encountered and routed the Midianites (Judges 7). It was south of the hill Moreh. The present `Ain Jalud ("Goliath's Fountain"), south of Jezreel and nearly opposite Shunem, is probably the fountain here referred to (7:4, 5). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAROD, WELL OFha'-rod (`en charodh, "fountain of trembling"): The fountain beside which (probably above it) Gideon and his army were encamped (Judges 7:1). Moore (Judges, in the place cited.) argues, inconclusively, that the hill Moreh must be sought near Shechem, and that the well of Harod must be some spring in the neighborhood of that city. There is no good reason to question the accuracy of the common view which places this spring at `Ain Jalud, on the edge of the vale of Jezreel, about 2 miles East of Zer`in, and just under the northern cliffs of Gilboa. A copious spring of clear cold water rises in a rocky cave and flows out into a large pool, whence it drains off, in Nahr Jalud, down the vale past Beisan to the Jordan. This is probably also to be identified with the spring "which is in Jezreel," i.e. in the district, near which Saul encamped before the battle of Gilboa (1 Samuel 29:1). `Ain el-Meiyiteh, just below Zer`in on the North, is hardly of sufficient size and importance to be a rival to `Ain Jalud. Strong's Hebrew 5878. en Charod -- En-Charod, a place in Palestine -- well of ...... en Charod. 5879 . En-Charod, a place in Palestine -- well of Harod. Transliteration: en Charod Phonetic Spelling: (ane khar-ode') Short Definition: Harod. ... /hebrew/5878.htm - 6k 2033. Harori -- an inhabitant of Harod 2733. Charodi -- inhab. of Harod 2730b. Charod -- a spring by which Gideon camped Library 'Fit, Though Few' The Story of Gideon and his Three Hundred Soldiers Thesaurus En-harod (1 Occurrence)En-harod. Enhanceth, En-harod. Enhazor . Multi-Version Concordance En-harod (1 Occurrence). Judges 7:1 Then Jerubbaal ... /e/en-harod.htm - 6k Moreh (3 Occurrences) Jezreel (37 Occurrences) Harod (3 Occurrences) Gideon (45 Occurrences) Well (2882 Occurrences) Harodite (2 Occurrences) Jerub-baal (8 Occurrences) Jerubbaal (15 Occurrences) Jerubba'al (11 Occurrences) Resources Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Harod (3 Occurrences)Judges 7:1 2 Samuel 23:25 1 Chronicles 11:27 Subtopics Harod: A Spring or Well by Which Gideon and his Army Camped Related Terms |
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