Definition and Meaning:
Irshemesh, meaning "city of the sun," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. The name reflects a possible connection to sun worship, which was prevalent in various ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew term "Ir" means "city," and "Shemesh" means "sun."

Biblical References:
Irshemesh is referenced in the Book of Joshua as part of the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Dan. In Joshua 19:41, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir-shemesh." This passage situates Irshemesh within the allotment given to the tribe of Dan during the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Irshemesh is believed to be located in the Shephelah, a region of lowlands in ancient Israel, which served as a buffer zone between the coastal plains and the central highlands. This area was strategically significant due to its fertile land and proximity to major trade routes. The exact location of Irshemesh is not definitively known, but it is often associated with the archaeological site of Beth-shemesh, which lies near the modern-day city of Beit Shemesh in Israel.

Cultural and Religious Significance:
The name "city of the sun" suggests that Irshemesh may have been a center for the worship of solar deities, a common practice among the Canaanites and other neighboring cultures. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative, which often highlights the Israelites' struggle to maintain monotheistic worship amidst surrounding pagan influences.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Irshemesh in the context of the tribal allotments underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan. It also reflects the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinct identity and faith in a land filled with diverse religious practices.

Archaeological Insights:
Archaeological excavations in the region associated with Irshemesh have uncovered evidence of ancient settlements, including fortifications, pottery, and religious artifacts. These findings provide insight into the daily life and religious practices of the inhabitants during the biblical period. The presence of sun-related iconography in some artifacts supports the notion of solar worship in the area.

Conclusion:
While Irshemesh is only briefly mentioned in the Bible, its inclusion in the tribal boundaries of Dan highlights its historical and cultural significance. The city's name and possible association with sun worship offer a glimpse into the religious landscape of ancient Canaan and the ongoing challenges faced by the Israelites in their covenant relationship with God.Irshemesh

a city of bondage

Irshemesh

(city of the sun), a city of the Danites (Joshua 19:41) probably identical with Beth-shemesh.

IR-SHEMESH

ur-she'-mesh, ir-she'-mesh (`ir shemesh, "city of the sun").

See BETH-SHEMESH; HERES.

Irshemesh (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Irshemesh (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:41 The border
of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol, Irshemesh, (WEB KJV). ...
/i/irshemesh.htm - 6k

Zorah (10 Occurrences)
... NIV). Joshua 19:41 The border of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol,
Irshemesh, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Judges ...
/z/zorah.htm - 11k

Ir (4 Occurrences)
... Joshua 19:41 The border of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol, Irshemesh,
(Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/i/ir.htm - 7k

Irritation (2 Occurrences)

/i/irritation.htm - 7k

Ir-shemesh (1 Occurrence)
Ir-shemesh. Irshemesh, Ir-shemesh. Ir-she'mesh . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
IR-SHEMESH. ... Irshemesh, Ir-shemesh. Ir-she'mesh . Reference Bible.
/i/ir-shemesh.htm - 7k

Eshtaol (7 Occurrences)
... NIV). Joshua 19:41 The border of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol,
Irshemesh, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). Judges ...
/e/eshtaol.htm - 10k

Shaalabbin (1 Occurrence)
... sha-a-lab'-in (sha`alabbin; Codex Vaticanus Salabein; Codex Alexandrinus Salamein):
A town in the territory of Dan named between Irshemesh and Aijalon (Joshua ...
/s/shaalabbin.htm - 7k

Shemesh (24 Occurrences)
... Joshua 19:41 The border of their inheritance was Zorah, Eshtaol, Irshemesh,
(Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). Joshua ...
/s/shemesh.htm - 14k

Heres (7 Occurrences)
... Sun. (1.) "Mount Heres" (Judges 1:35), Hebrews Har-heres, ie, "sun-mountain;" probably
identical with Irshemesh in Joshua 19:41. (2.) Isaiah 19:18, marg. ...
/h/heres.htm - 10k

Coast (70 Occurrences)
... toward the sunrising. (KJV). Joshua 19:41 And the coast of their inheritance
was Zorah, and Eshtaol, and Irshemesh, (KJV). Joshua 19:47 ...
/c/coast.htm - 31k

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