Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Kishion is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is referenced in Joshua 19:20 as one of the towns allotted to the tribe of Issachar. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And the fifth lot came out for the tribe of the children of Issachar according to their families. Their territory included: Jezreel, Chesulloth, Shunem, Hapharaim, Shion, Anaharath, Rabbith, Kishion, Ebez, Remeth, En-gannim, En-haddah, and Beth-pazzez." Historical and Geographical Context: Kishion was a town located in the region assigned to the tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The territory of Issachar was situated in the fertile Jezreel Valley, an area known for its agricultural productivity. The specific location of Kishion is not definitively known today, but it is believed to have been situated within this valley, contributing to the sustenance and prosperity of the tribe. Tribal Significance: The tribe of Issachar, to which Kishion belonged, was known for its wisdom and understanding of the times, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32. The allocation of towns like Kishion to Issachar highlights the importance of land distribution among the tribes of Israel, as each tribe was given specific territories to inhabit and cultivate. This distribution was part of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan. Levitical City: Kishion is also mentioned in the context of the Levitical cities. In Joshua 21:28, Kishion is listed as one of the cities given to the Levites from the tribe of Issachar: "From the tribe of Issachar they gave Kishion, Daberath." The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties and service to the Lord, were not given a separate territory like the other tribes. Instead, they were assigned specific cities within the territories of the other tribes, including Kishion, to dwell in and perform their priestly functions. Theological Implications: The inclusion of Kishion as a Levitical city underscores the integration of spiritual and communal life in ancient Israel. The presence of the Levites in towns like Kishion ensured that the worship of Yahweh and adherence to the Law were maintained throughout the land. This arrangement reflects the centrality of worship and obedience to God in the life of the Israelite community. Archaeological Insights: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly linked to Kishion, the broader region of the Jezreel Valley has been the subject of extensive archaeological study. Discoveries in this area have provided insights into the agricultural practices, settlement patterns, and daily life of the ancient Israelites, offering a backdrop against which the biblical narrative of Kishion can be understood. Conclusion: Kishion, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, played a role in the tribal and religious landscape of ancient Israel. As part of the inheritance of Issachar and a city designated for the Levites, it contributed to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises and the spiritual life of the nation. Concordance Kish'ion (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:20 Thesaurus Kish'ion (1 Occurrence)Kish'ion. Ki'shion, Kish'ion. Kishon . Multi-Version Concordance Kish'ion (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:20 and Rabbith, and Kishion, and Ebez; (See RSV). ... /k/kish'ion.htm - 6k Kishon (6 Occurrences) Ki'shion (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |