Topical Encyclopedia Overview: King's Dale, also known as the Valley of the King, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is a site of historical and spiritual significance, associated with key biblical figures and events. The valley is traditionally identified with the Kidron Valley, which lies to the east of Jerusalem. Biblical References: King's Dale is specifically mentioned in two passages of the Bible: 1. Genesis 14:17 : "After Abram returned from defeating Kedorlaomer and the kings allied with him, the king of Sodom came out to meet him in the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley)." This passage describes the aftermath of Abram's (later Abraham) victory over the coalition of kings led by Kedorlaomer. The King's Dale serves as the meeting place between Abram and the king of Sodom, highlighting its role as a significant and possibly neutral location for diplomatic encounters. 2. 2 Samuel 18:18 : "During his lifetime, Absalom had taken a pillar and erected it in the King’s Valley as a monument to himself, for he said, 'I have no son to carry on the memory of my name.' He named the pillar after himself, and to this day it is called Absalom’s Monument." This verse recounts the actions of Absalom, King David's son, who sought to establish a lasting legacy by erecting a monument in the King's Dale. This act reflects Absalom's desire for remembrance and his tragic lack of a male heir. Historical and Cultural Context: The King's Dale, identified with the Kidron Valley, holds a prominent place in the geography surrounding Jerusalem. It is a site of ancient significance, often associated with royal activities and memorials. The valley's proximity to Jerusalem made it a convenient location for events involving the city's inhabitants and leaders. In the context of Genesis 14, the King's Dale serves as a backdrop for the meeting between Abram and the king of Sodom, following Abram's divinely aided victory. This encounter underscores the valley's role as a place of interaction between God's chosen servant and the surrounding nations. In 2 Samuel 18, the erection of Absalom's monument in the King's Dale symbolizes the tension between human ambition and divine providence. Absalom's attempt to secure his legacy through a physical monument contrasts with the biblical theme of legacy through faithfulness to God. Theological Significance: The King's Dale is emblematic of the broader biblical narrative, where human endeavors and divine purposes intersect. The valley serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty in the affairs of men, as seen in Abram's victory and Absalom's tragic end. It highlights the futility of seeking lasting legacy apart from God's will, as demonstrated by Absalom's monument, which ultimately stands as a testament to his rebellion and downfall. The references to the King's Dale in Scripture invite reflection on the nature of true legacy and the importance of aligning one's life with God's purposes. The valley's historical and spiritual associations encourage believers to consider the lasting impact of their actions in light of God's eternal plan. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia King's DaleKING'S DALE See DALE, KING'S. Library The Wail of a Broken Heart How, when Absalom was Beaten, He was Caught in a Tree by his Hair ... The General Service of the Holy Fathers, in Remembrance of ... How Abram Fought with the Assyrians, and Overcame Them, and Saved ... A Question for Communicants The Prophet Joel. The Puritan Beginnings of the Church in virginia ---Its Decline ... The Humanity of God The Scotch Covenants and the Scotch Kirk. Index. Resources What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Wedding Feast? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Saul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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