Biblical Reference:
Jidalah is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is listed as one of the towns within the territory allotted to the tribe of Zebulun. The reference can be found in Joshua 19:10-15, where the boundaries and cities of Zebulun's inheritance are detailed.

Scriptural Citation:
In Joshua 19:12-15 , the passage states: "Then it turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrise to the border of Chisloth-tabor, went on to Daberath, and up to Japhia. From there it continued eastward to Gath-hepher and Eth-kazin; it came out at Rimmon and turned toward Neah. Then it curved around on the north to Hannathon and ended at the Valley of Iphtah-el. Included were Kattath, Nahalal, Shimron, Idalah, and Bethlehem—twelve cities, along with their villages."

Geographical Context:
Jidalah, also spelled Idalah in some translations, is one of the lesser-known towns mentioned in the Bible. Its exact location is not definitively identified in modern geography, but it is understood to be within the region assigned to Zebulun, which is in the northern part of ancient Israel. The area is characterized by its proximity to other notable locations such as Gath-hepher and Bethlehem of Zebulun, not to be confused with Bethlehem of Judah.

Historical and Cultural Significance:
The town of Jidalah, like many others listed in the tribal allotments, represents the fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Jacob to give them a land of their own. Each town and city mentioned in these allotments holds significance as part of the broader narrative of the Israelites settling in the Promised Land. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel is a testament to the covenantal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing themes of divine faithfulness and providence.

Theological Implications:
The mention of Jidalah, though brief, contributes to the understanding of God's meticulous care in providing for each tribe of Israel. It underscores the importance of every part of the land, no matter how seemingly insignificant, in the divine plan. The detailed recording of these towns in Scripture highlights the value of each community and the role they play in the collective identity of Israel as God's chosen people.

Archaeological Insights:
While Jidalah itself has not been conclusively identified in archaeological findings, the general region of Zebulun has been subject to various excavations. These efforts have provided insights into the lifestyle, culture, and historical context of the inhabitants during the biblical period. Artifacts and settlement patterns discovered in the broader area contribute to a deeper understanding of the environment in which towns like Jidalah existed.

Conclusion:
Jidalah serves as a reminder of the intricate details within the biblical narrative that contribute to the overarching account of God's interaction with His people. Though not prominent in biblical history, its inclusion in the tribal allotments of Zebulun reflects the comprehensive nature of God's promises and the importance of each community in the unfolding of His divine plan.3030. Yidalah -- a place in Zebulun
... Idalah (1). Idalah. Of uncertain derivation; Jidalah, a place in Palestine --
Idalah. 3029, 3030. Yidalah. 3031 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/3030.htm - 5kJidalah (1 Occurrence)
...Jidalah (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:15 and Kattath, and Nahalal, and Shimron, and
Jidalah, and Beth-lehem: twelve cities and their hamlets. (DBY). ...
/j/jidalah.htm - 6k

Jidbash (1 Occurrence)

/j/jidbash.htm - 6k

Jibsam (1 Occurrence)

/j/jibsam.htm - 7k

Hamlets (38 Occurrences)
... families. (DBY). Joshua 19:15 and Kattath, and Nahalal, and Shimron, and Jidalah,
and Beth-lehem: twelve cities and their hamlets. (DBY). ...
/h/hamlets.htm - 16k

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