Topical Encyclopedia Jekabzeel is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Nehemiah. It is identified as a town in the territory of Judah. The name "Jekabzeel" means "God gathers" or "God collects," reflecting a theme of divine gathering or assembly.Biblical Reference: Jekabzeel is mentioned in Nehemiah 11:25, which states: "As for the villages with their fields, some of the people of Judah lived in Kiriath-arba and its villages, in Dibon and its villages, in Jekabzeel and its villages." Historical and Geographical Context: Jekabzeel is listed among the towns where the people of Judah resettled after the Babylonian exile. This period was marked by the return of the Jewish exiles to their ancestral lands, as decreed by the Persian King Cyrus. The resettlement efforts were part of a broader initiative to restore the community and religious life in Jerusalem and its surrounding areas. The exact location of Jekabzeel is not definitively known today, but it is believed to have been situated in the southern part of Judah. Its mention alongside other towns like Kiriath-arba (Hebron) and Dibon suggests it was part of a network of settlements that played a role in the reestablishment of the Jewish community in the post-exilic period. Theological Significance: The inclusion of Jekabzeel in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of land and community in the covenant relationship between God and the people of Israel. The return to and resettlement of these towns symbolize the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people after a period of judgment and exile. It reflects the themes of restoration, hope, and divine faithfulness that are prevalent throughout the biblical text. Cultural and Religious Life: The resettlement of towns like Jekabzeel was not merely a physical return but also a spiritual renewal. The rebuilding of homes and communities was accompanied by a revival of religious practices, adherence to the Law, and the reestablishment of worship in the Temple. This period was marked by a renewed commitment to the covenant and a desire to live in accordance with God's commandments. Conclusion: While Jekabzeel is a relatively minor location in the biblical narrative, its mention in the context of the return from exile highlights the broader themes of restoration and divine providence. It serves as a testament to the enduring relationship between God and His people, as well as the importance of land and community in the biblical worldview. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary JekabzeelSmith's Bible Dictionary Jekabzeel(what God gathers), a fuller form of the name of KABZEEL, the most remote city of Judah on the southern frontier. (Nehemiah 11:25) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JEKABZELje-kab'-ze-el (yeqabhtse'el, "God gathers"; Nehemiah 11:25). Strong's Hebrew 3343. Yeqabtseel -- Jekabzeel... 3342, 3343. Yeqabtseel. 3344 . Jekabzeel. Transliteration: Yeqabtseel Phonetic Spelling: (yek-ab-tseh-ale') Short Definition: Jekabzeel. ... Jekabzeel ... /hebrew/3343.htm - 6k 6909. Qabtseel -- "God gathers," a city in S. Judah Thesaurus Jekabzeel (1 Occurrence)... JEKABZEL. je-kab'-ze-el (yeqabhtse'el, "God gathers"; Nehemiah 11:25). See KABZEEL. Multi-Version Concordance Jekabzeel (1 Occurrence). ... /j/jekabzeel.htm - 7k Kabzeel (3 Occurrences) Jekab'zeel (1 Occurrence) Je-i'el (11 Occurrences) Proper (62 Occurrences) Kirjath-arba (8 Occurrences) Kiriath-arba (9 Occurrences) Kir'iath-ar'ba (9 Occurrences) Kirjatharba (6 Occurrences) Daughter-towns (17 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jekabzeel (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 11:25 Subtopics Jekabzeel: A City in the South of the Tribe of Judah Related Terms |