Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "I'ye-Ab'arim" is derived from Hebrew, where "I'ye" means "ruins" or "heaps," and "Ab'arim" refers to "regions beyond" or "passages." Thus, the name can be understood as "Ruins of the Regions Beyond" or "Heaps of the Passages." Biblical References: I'ye-Ab'arim is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' wilderness journey as they approached the Promised Land. It is specifically noted in the Book of Numbers: · Numbers 21:11 : "Then they set out from Oboth and camped at I'ye-abarim, in the wilderness that faces Moab toward the sunrise." · Numbers 33:44-45 : "They set out from Oboth and camped at I'ye-abarim, on the border of Moab. They set out from I'ye-abarim and camped at Dibon-gad." Geographical Context: I'ye-Ab'arim is located in the wilderness region east of the Jordan River, facing Moab. It is part of the journey the Israelites undertook as they moved from Egypt towards Canaan. The site is described as being in the wilderness, indicating a desolate or uninhabited area, which aligns with the meaning of "ruins" or "heaps." Historical and Theological Significance: The mention of I'ye-Ab'arim in the biblical narrative underscores the transitional phase of the Israelites' journey. It represents a stage in their movement from the wilderness wanderings towards the conquest of the Promised Land. The location's proximity to Moab is significant, as it situates the Israelites near the territory of a people with whom they had complex interactions, including both conflict and kinship, as Moab was descended from Lot, Abraham's nephew. Theologically, the journey through places like I'ye-Ab'arim highlights themes of faith, obedience, and divine guidance. The Israelites' travels were directed by God, who led them through various stages and challenges, teaching them reliance on His provision and promises. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of I'ye-Ab'arim is not definitively identified in modern archaeology, it is generally associated with the region east of the Dead Sea, near the ancient territories of Moab. The lack of precise archaeological evidence is not uncommon for many sites mentioned in the wilderness narratives, which often describe transient encampments rather than permanent settlements. Cultural and Literary Context: In the broader literary context of the Pentateuch, I'ye-Ab'arim is part of the itinerary lists that document the stages of the Israelites' journey. These lists serve both a historical and theological purpose, providing a record of the journey and emphasizing God's faithfulness in leading His people through the wilderness. The mention of I'ye-Ab'arim, like other locations in the wilderness journey, serves as a reminder of the transient nature of the Israelites' existence during this period and the anticipation of entering the land promised to their forefathers. Concordance I'ye-Ab'arim (2 Occurrences)Numbers 21:11 Numbers 33:44 Thesaurus I'ye-Ab'arim (2 Occurrences)I'ye-Ab'arim. Iye-abarim, I'ye-Ab'arim. Iyim . Multi-Version Concordance I'ye-Ab'arim (2 Occurrences). Numbers 21:11 They traveled ... /i/i'ye-ab'arim.htm - 6k Iye-abarim (2 Occurrences) Iyim (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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