Hazezontamar, also known as En-gedi, is a location of significant historical and biblical importance. The name "Hazezontamar" translates to "pruning of the palm" or "place of the palm trees," which reflects the area's lush vegetation and abundance of palm trees. This site is situated near the western shore of the Dead Sea and is renowned for its natural beauty and strategic location.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 14:7 · Hazezontamar is first mentioned in the context of the military campaign of the four kings led by Chedorlaomer. The verse states: "Then they turned back to En Mishpat (that is, Kadesh), and they conquered the whole territory of the Amalekites, as well as the Amorites who were living in Hazezontamar." This reference highlights the area's early habitation and its involvement in regional conflicts.

2. 2 Chronicles 20:2 · The site is also mentioned during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. The verse reads: "Then some men came and told Jehoshaphat, 'A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the Sea; they are already in Hazezontamar' (that is, En-gedi)." This passage underscores Hazezontamar's strategic significance as a staging ground for military advances.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Hazezontamar, identified with En-gedi, is located in a region known for its natural springs and fertile land, making it an oasis in the arid landscape surrounding the Dead Sea. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, serving as a refuge and a center for agriculture, particularly the cultivation of date palms and balsam.

The strategic importance of Hazezontamar is evident from its repeated mention in military contexts. Its location provided a natural defense and a vantage point for observing enemy movements. The lush environment also offered sustenance and resources for armies and travelers alike.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

In addition to its military and economic importance, Hazezontamar holds cultural and religious significance. It is associated with the biblical narrative of King David, who sought refuge in the caves of En-gedi while fleeing from King Saul (1 Samuel 24:1-2). This association with David adds a layer of spiritual heritage to the site, as it is remembered as a place of divine protection and providence.

The natural beauty and resources of Hazezontamar have made it a symbol of God's provision and blessing. The abundance of water and vegetation in such a barren region serves as a testament to the Creator's ability to sustain life in the most unlikely of places.

Archaeological Insights:

Archaeological findings in the area have uncovered evidence of ancient settlements, agricultural practices, and trade. The remains of fortifications and agricultural installations provide insight into the daily lives of its inhabitants and their interactions with neighboring regions.

Overall, Hazezontamar stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of biblical history, reflecting themes of conflict, refuge, and divine sustenance. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire and inform the study of biblical geography and history.Hazezontamar

and Hazazon-tamar (pruning of palm trees), the ancient name of Engedi. (Genesis 14:7) The name occurs in the records of the reign of Hezekiah. (2 Chronicles 20:2)

Pruning of the palm, the original name of the place afterwards called ENGEDI (q.v.), Genesis 14:7; called also HAZAZON-TAMAR (2 Chronicles 20:2). HAZEZON-TAMAR

haz'-e-zon-ta'-mar chatsatson tamar, Genesis 14:7 the King James Version; chatstson tamar, 2 Chronicles 20:2).

See HAZAZON-TAMAR.

Hazezontamar (1 Occurrence)
... HAZAZON-TAMAR. Multi-Version Concordance Hazezontamar (1 Occurrence). Genesis
14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which ...
/h/hazezontamar.htm - 7k

Enmish'pat (1 Occurrence)
... 14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the
country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar. ...
/e/enmish'pat.htm - 6k

Enmishpat (1 Occurrence)
... 14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the
country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar. ...
/e/enmishpat.htm - 6k

Smote (281 Occurrences)
... 14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the
country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar. ...
/s/smote.htm - 39k

Hazezon-tamar (2 Occurrences)
Hazezon-tamar. Hazezontamar, Hazezon-tamar. Haziel . Easton's Bible Dictionary ...
Hazezontamar, Hazezon-tamar. Haziel . Reference Bible.
/h/hazezon-tamar.htm - 7k

Haze'roth (5 Occurrences)
Haze'roth. Hazeroth, Haze'roth. Hazezontamar . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Hazeroth, Haze'roth. Hazezontamar . Reference Bible.
/h/haze'roth.htm - 7k

Dwelt (307 Occurrences)
... 14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the
country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar. ...
/d/dwelt.htm - 36k

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