The title "King of Tappuah" refers to the ruler of the city of Tappuah, a location mentioned in the Old Testament. Tappuah is noted in the context of the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites under the leadership of Joshua. The city is listed among the territories and cities conquered by the Israelites as they took possession of the Promised Land.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 12:17 : "the king of Tappuah, one; the king of Hepher, one;" This verse is part of a larger passage that enumerates the kings defeated by Joshua and the Israelites. The mention of the king of Tappuah in this list indicates that Tappuah was a significant city-state with its own monarch, which was typical of the Canaanite city-states during this period.

2. Joshua 15:34-35 : While Tappuah is not directly mentioned in these verses, the surrounding context of the tribal allotments provides insight into the geographical and tribal significance of the region. Tappuah was located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah, although there is some ambiguity as to whether it was fully controlled by them or shared with the tribe of Ephraim.

3. Joshua 16:8 : "From Tappuah the border went westward to the Brook of Kanah and ended at the sea. This was the inheritance of the tribe of Ephraim, according to their clans." This verse highlights the strategic location of Tappuah, marking it as a boundary point for the tribe of Ephraim. The city's location near the Brook of Kanah suggests its importance in terms of water resources and trade routes.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Tappuah, meaning "apple" in Hebrew, was likely named for its agricultural productivity, particularly in fruit cultivation. The city was situated in the hill country of Ephraim, a region known for its fertile land and strategic military significance. The exact location of Tappuah is debated among scholars, but it is generally associated with the area near modern-day Shechem or possibly closer to the western foothills.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

The mention of the king of Tappuah in the biblical narrative underscores the fragmented political landscape of Canaan during the time of the Israelite conquest. Each city-state, including Tappuah, had its own king, reflecting the decentralized nature of Canaanite society. The defeat of these kings by Joshua is portrayed as a demonstration of God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel, fulfilling His promise to give them the land of Canaan.

Theologically, the conquest of Tappuah and other Canaanite cities is often interpreted as a divine judgment against the idolatry and moral corruption of the Canaanites. For the Israelites, the successful conquest and settlement in these territories were seen as acts of divine providence, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people and their mission to establish a society based on the laws and commandments given to them.

Conclusion:

The king of Tappuah, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, represents the broader theme of Israel's divinely ordained conquest of Canaan. The city's inclusion in the list of defeated kings serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of Israel in the land.