Biblical References:
Jok'ne-am is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is referenced as a city within the territory allotted to the tribe of Zebulun and later designated as a Levitical city. The primary biblical reference to Jok'ne-am is found in Joshua 19:11 and Joshua 21:34.

Geographical Location:
Jok'ne-am is situated in the region of Galilee, in the northern part of ancient Israel. It is located near Mount Carmel, a significant landmark in biblical history. The city is often identified with the modern archaeological site of Tel Yokneam, which lies near the Kishon River.

Tribal Allocation:
In the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel, Jok'ne-am was allocated to the tribe of Zebulun. Joshua 19:11 states, "Then their border went up westward to Maralah, and reached Dabbesheth, and reached to the brook that is before Jokneam."

Levitical City:
Jok'ne-am was later designated as one of the Levitical cities. The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes, were given specific cities to inhabit. Joshua 21:34 records, "And to the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with its pasturelands, Kartah with its pasturelands."

Historical and Archaeological Significance:
The identification of Jok'ne-am with Tel Yokneam has been supported by archaeological findings. Excavations at the site have revealed layers of occupation dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages, indicating its long-standing significance in the region. The strategic location of Jok'ne-am near major trade routes would have contributed to its importance in ancient times.

Theological Implications:
Jok'ne-am's designation as a Levitical city underscores the importance of the Levites in Israelite society. As a city given to the Levites, Jok'ne-am served as a center for religious instruction and worship, reflecting the centrality of faith and obedience to God's commandments in the life of the Israelite community. The allocation of cities like Jok'ne-am to the Levites ensured that the spiritual needs of the people were met throughout the land.

Cultural Context:
In the broader cultural context of the ancient Near East, cities like Jok'ne-am played crucial roles in the administration and religious life of the people. The presence of Levites in these cities would have provided a stabilizing influence, promoting adherence to the covenantal laws and traditions that defined Israelite identity.

Conclusion:
While Jok'ne-am may not be as prominently featured in biblical narratives as other cities, its role as a Levitical city highlights the integration of religious and communal life in ancient Israel. The city's mention in the context of tribal inheritance and Levitical service reflects the broader themes of divine provision and the sanctity of worship in the biblical tradition.Jok'ne-am (3 Occurrences)

Joshua 12:22
the king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam in Carmel, one;
(See RSV)

Joshua 19:11
And their border went up westward, even to Maralah, and reached to Dabbesheth; and it reached to the brook that is before Jokneam.
(See RSV)

Joshua 21:34
And unto the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with the open land about it, and Kartah with the open land about it;
(See RSV)

Jok'ne-am (3 Occurrences)
Jok'ne-am. Jokneam, Jok'ne-am. Jokshan . Multi-Version Concordance
Jok'ne-am (3 Occurrences). Joshua 12:22 the king of Kedesh, one ...
/j/jok'ne-am.htm - 7k

Jokneam (5 Occurrences)
...jok'-ne-am (yoqne`am): A royal city of the Canaanites taken by Joshua and described
as "in Carmel" (Joshua 12:22), in the territory of Zebulun, and allotted to ...
/j/jokneam.htm - 9k

Jokshan (3 Occurrences)

/j/jokshan.htm - 8k

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