Topical Bible: Ma'acath

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Topical Encyclopedia

Overview:
Ma'acath refers to both a person and a region mentioned in the Bible. The term is associated with a small Aramean kingdom located in the northern part of the Transjordan, near the region of Bashan. The people of Ma'acath are known as Maacathites. The name Ma'acath is also linked to individuals in the biblical narrative, notably in the genealogies and accounts of Israel's history.

Biblical References:

1. Region and People:
· The land of Ma'acath is mentioned in the context of the territories that the Israelites encountered during their conquest of Canaan. In Joshua 13:11, the region is described as part of the inheritance of the half-tribe of Manasseh: "Gilead, and the territory of the Geshurites and Maacathites, all Mount Hermon, and all Bashan as far as Salecah."
· The Maacathites are noted as a distinct group that the Israelites did not drive out completely. In Joshua 13:13, it is stated, "But the Israelites did not drive out the Geshurites or the Maacathites, so Geshur and Maacath dwell among the Israelites to this day."

2. Individuals:
· Maacah, a derivative of Ma'acath, is a name associated with several individuals in the Bible. One notable figure is Maacah, the wife of King David and mother of Absalom and Tamar. In 2 Samuel 3:3, she is identified as "Maacah, the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur."
· Another Maacah is mentioned as the mother of King Abijah of Judah. In 1 Kings 15:2, it is recorded, "He reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother’s name was Maacah daughter of Abishalom."

Historical and Cultural Context:
The Maacathites were likely a small, semi-independent group living in the northern Transjordan region. Their proximity to the Israelites and other neighboring tribes often placed them in the midst of regional conflicts and alliances. The biblical narrative suggests that the Maacathites maintained their distinct identity despite the Israelite conquest, indicating a level of resilience and autonomy.

The kingdom of Ma'acath, along with Geshur, played a role in the geopolitical landscape of the time. The marriage alliances, such as that of Maacah with King David, highlight the interconnectedness of the various tribes and kingdoms in the ancient Near East.

Theological Significance:
The references to Ma'acath and the Maacathites in the Bible underscore themes of incomplete conquest and the enduring presence of non-Israelite peoples within the Promised Land. This serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by the Israelites in fulfilling God's command to possess the land. The interactions with neighboring peoples, including intermarriage and political alliances, reflect the challenges of maintaining covenant faithfulness amidst external influences.

The individuals named Maacah in the biblical narrative also illustrate the personal and familial dynamics that influenced the history of Israel and Judah. The accounts of Maacah, the mother of Absalom, and Maacah, the mother of Abijah, provide insight into the roles of women in the royal households and their impact on the unfolding of Israel's history.

Concordance

Ma'acath (1 Occurrence)

Joshua 13:13
Nevertheless the children of Israel didn't drive out the Geshurites, nor the Maacathites: but Geshur and Maacath dwell in the midst of Israel to this day.
(See RSV)

Thesaurus

Ma'acath (1 Occurrence)
Ma'acath. Maacath, Ma'acath. Maacathite . Multi-Version Concordance
Ma'acath (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:13 Nevertheless the children ...
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