Biblical Reference:
Karkaa is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is listed as one of the landmarks in the delineation of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The reference can be found in Joshua 15:3.

Scriptural Context:
In the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, Joshua 15 outlines the boundaries of the land given to the tribe of Judah. The passage provides a detailed description of the borders, starting from the southernmost point. Karkaa is mentioned as part of the southern boundary:

· Joshua 15:3 : "proceeded south of the ascent of Akrabbim, continued to Zin, went over to the south of Kadesh-barnea, then went to Hezron, up to Addar, and turned to Karkaah."

Geographical and Historical Insights:
The exact location of Karkaa is not definitively known today, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible outside of this context. It is presumed to have been situated in the southern part of the territory of Judah, near the Negev desert. The region described in Joshua 15 is characterized by its arid landscape, which would have been a challenging environment for the Israelites to settle and cultivate.

Theological Significance:
The mention of Karkaa, like other geographical markers in the biblical text, underscores the historical and covenantal significance of the land of Israel. The detailed description of boundaries in Joshua 15 reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants a land of their own (Genesis 12:7, 26:3, 28:13). Each landmark, including Karkaa, serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God in delivering the inheritance to the tribes of Israel.

Cultural and Archaeological Considerations:
While Karkaa itself has not been identified archaeologically, the broader region of Judah has been the subject of extensive archaeological study. Findings in the area have provided insights into the lifestyle, culture, and challenges faced by the ancient Israelites. The lack of specific archaeological evidence for Karkaa does not diminish its importance in the biblical narrative, as many ancient sites remain undiscovered or have been lost to history.

Conclusion:
Karkaa, though briefly mentioned, plays a role in the biblical narrative of the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land. Its inclusion in the boundary descriptions of Judah highlights the meticulous care with which the biblical authors recorded the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

Karkaa or Karkaa

(foundation), one of the landmarks on the south boundary of the tribe of Judah. (Joshua 15:3) Its site is unknown.

Strong's Hebrew

7173. Qarqa -- "floor," a place on S. border of Judah
... Karkaa. The same as qarqa'; ground-floor; Karka (with the article prefix), a place
in Palestine -- Karkaa. see HEBREW qarqa'. 7172, 7173. Qarqa. 7174 . ...
/hebrew/7173.htm - 6k

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