Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Ma'haneh-dan" translates to "Camp of Dan" in Hebrew. It signifies a place associated with the tribe of Dan, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and the first son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Biblical References: Ma'haneh-dan is mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 18:12. The passage states: "They went up and camped at Kiriath-jearim in Judah. This is why the place west of Kiriath-jearim is called Mahaneh-dan to this day." Historical Context: The reference to Ma'haneh-dan occurs during the narrative of the migration of the Danites. The tribe of Dan, originally allotted territory in the southwestern part of Canaan, found it difficult to settle there due to pressure from the Philistines. Consequently, they sought a new inheritance in the north. The encampment at Ma'haneh-dan marks a significant moment in their journey as they prepared to capture the city of Laish, which they later renamed Dan. Geographical Location: Ma'haneh-dan is located near Kiriath-jearim, which is situated in the territory of Judah. The exact location of Ma'haneh-dan is not definitively known today, but it is traditionally identified with a site west of Kiriath-jearim. This area served as a strategic encampment for the Danites as they planned their conquest. Cultural and Theological Significance: The account of Ma'haneh-dan highlights the struggles and determination of the tribe of Dan to secure a homeland. It reflects the broader theme of the Israelites' quest for the Promised Land and the challenges they faced in fulfilling God's covenant promises. The narrative also underscores the importance of faith and perseverance in overcoming obstacles. Related Themes and Topics: · Tribal Allotments: The division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel, as described in the Book of Joshua. · Migration and Settlement: The movement of the Danites from their original allotment to a new territory, illustrating the dynamic nature of Israelite settlement. · Divine Providence: The belief in God's guidance and provision for the tribes of Israel as they sought to establish themselves in the land. Cross-References: · Judges 18: The broader context of the Danite migration and the capture of Laish. · Joshua 19:40-48: The original allotment of land to the tribe of Dan. · Genesis 49:16-17: Jacob's blessing of Dan, which foreshadows the tribe's future challenges and achievements. Ma'haneh-dan serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the tribe of Dan, as well as a reminder of the ongoing fulfillment of God's promises to the people of Israel. Concordance Ma'haneh-dan (2 Occurrences)Judges 13:25 Judges 18:12 Thesaurus Ma'haneh-dan (2 Occurrences)Ma'haneh-dan. Mahaneh-dan, Ma'haneh-dan. Maharai . Multi-Version Concordance Ma'haneh-dan (2 Occurrences). Judges 13:25 And the ... /m/ma'haneh-dan.htm - 7k Mahaneh-dan (2 Occurrences) Maharai (3 Occurrences) Esh'ta-ol (6 Occurrences) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Stir (57 Occurrences) Resources Who was Dan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Dan? | GotQuestions.org What is Ugaritic, and what does it have to do with the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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