Lebonah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. It is referenced in the context of the tribal allotments and the narrative of the Benjamite crisis. The name "Lebonah" is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "frankincense," suggesting that the area may have been associated with the production or trade of this valuable resin.

Biblical Reference:

Lebonah is mentioned in Judges 21:19, which states: "But look, there is the annual festival of the LORD in Shiloh, which is north of Bethel, east of the road that goes from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebonah." This passage situates Lebonah geographically in relation to other significant locations in ancient Israel, such as Shiloh, Bethel, and Shechem. The context of this verse is the aftermath of the civil strife between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, where a plan is devised to provide wives for the surviving Benjamites.

Geographical Context:

Lebonah is located in the central hill country of ancient Israel. Its proximity to Shiloh, a major religious center during the period of the Judges, indicates its importance in the tribal landscape of the time. The mention of Lebonah in relation to a road suggests it may have been a waypoint or a notable landmark for travelers moving between key cities in the region.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

The mention of Lebonah in the context of the annual festival of the LORD at Shiloh highlights the cultural and religious practices of the Israelites during the time of the Judges. This festival was likely one of the three major pilgrimage feasts, which included Passover, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles, where Israelites gathered to worship and offer sacrifices.

Lebonah's association with frankincense, a substance used in religious rituals and offerings, further underscores its potential role in the religious life of ancient Israel. Frankincense was a key component in the incense offerings described in the Torah, and its mention in connection with Lebonah may indicate the area's involvement in the trade or production of this aromatic resin.

Archaeological Insights:

While the exact location of Lebonah has not been definitively identified, some scholars suggest it may correspond to the modern site of al-Lubban ash-Sharqiya, a village located along the ancient road from Bethel to Shechem. Archaeological surveys in the region have uncovered remains from various periods, including the Iron Age, which align with the biblical timeline of the Judges.

Theological Implications:

The narrative involving Lebonah in Judges 21 reflects the broader themes of covenant, community, and redemption found throughout the Bible. The crisis faced by the tribe of Benjamin and the subsequent resolution through the gathering at Shiloh underscores the importance of unity and reconciliation among God's people. Lebonah's mention in this context serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the tribes of Israel and their shared heritage and responsibilities under the covenant with God.Lebo'nah (1 Occurrence)

Judges 21:19
So they said, "Behold, there is the yearly feast of the LORD at Shiloh, which is north of Bethel, on the east of the highway that goes up from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebo'nah."
(DBY RSV)

Lebo'nah (1 Occurrence)
Lebo'nah. Lebonah, Lebo'nah. Lecah . Multi-Version Concordance Lebo'nah
(1 Occurrence). Judges 21:19 So they said, "Behold, there ...
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Lebonah (1 Occurrence)

/l/lebonah.htm - 7k

Lecah (1 Occurrence)

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