Topical Encyclopedia Je'gar-sahadu'tha is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Genesis. It is an Aramaic phrase meaning "Heap of Witness." This term is significant in the context of the covenant made between Jacob and Laban, as recorded in Genesis 31.Biblical Context In Genesis 31, Jacob, having served Laban for many years, decides to return to his homeland with his family and possessions. Laban, upon discovering Jacob's departure, pursues him. When they meet, a tense confrontation occurs, but it ultimately leads to a peaceful resolution. To commemorate their agreement and ensure future peace, Jacob and Laban set up a heap of stones as a witness to their covenant. Genesis 31:47 states: "Laban named it Jegar-sahadutha, but Jacob called it Galeed." The dual naming of the heap reflects the linguistic and cultural differences between Laban, who spoke Aramaic, and Jacob, who spoke Hebrew. While "Je'gar-sahadu'tha" is Aramaic, "Galeed" is the Hebrew equivalent, both meaning "Heap of Witness." Significance The naming of the heap as Je'gar-sahadu'tha highlights the importance of covenants and oaths in the biblical narrative. It serves as a physical reminder of the agreement between Jacob and Laban, emphasizing the role of witnesses in ensuring the integrity and accountability of such agreements. This event underscores the biblical principle of reconciliation and the importance of peaceful resolutions to conflicts. Cultural and Theological Insights The use of both Aramaic and Hebrew names for the same location illustrates the diverse cultural and linguistic landscape of the ancient Near East. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's covenantal faithfulness, as seen throughout Scripture. The heap of stones as a witness is a tangible representation of the spiritual and relational commitments made before God and man. In the broader theological context, Je'gar-sahadu'tha serves as a precursor to later biblical covenants, foreshadowing the ultimate covenant fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The emphasis on witness and testimony in this narrative aligns with the biblical call for believers to live as witnesses to God's truth and faithfulness in their own lives. Concordance Je'gar-sahadu'tha (1 Occurrence)Genesis 31:47 Thesaurus Je'gar-sahadu'tha (1 Occurrence)Je'gar-sahadu'tha. Jegar-sahadutha, Je'gar-sahadu'tha. Jegar-saha-dutha . Multi-Version Concordance Je'gar-sahadu'tha (1 Occurrence). ... /j/je'gar-sahadu'tha.htm - 6k Jegar-sahadutha (1 Occurrence) Jegar-saha-dutha (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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