Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Maalehacrabbim, often translated as "Ascent of the Scorpions," is a term derived from Hebrew, where "ma'aleh" means "ascent" or "pass," and "acrabbim" refers to "scorpions." This name likely reflects the geographical or environmental characteristics of the area, possibly indicating a region known for its scorpions or a rugged, challenging terrain. Biblical References Maalehacrabbim is mentioned in the Old Testament as a geographical landmark that helps define the boundaries of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel. It is specifically noted in the context of the southern boundary of the tribe of Judah. · Joshua 15:3 : "Then it proceeded southward to the ascent of Akrabbim, passed on to Zin, ascended to the south of Kadesh-barnea, and went on to Hezron, up to Addar, and turned toward Karka." · Judges 1:36 : "The border of the Amorites extended from the Ascent of Akrabbim to Sela and beyond." These passages indicate that Maalehacrabbim was a significant landmark in the delineation of tribal territories, marking the southern extent of the land of Judah and the border with the territory of the Amorites. Geographical Location Maalehacrabbim is generally identified with a region in the southern part of ancient Israel, near the Negev Desert. It is thought to be located near the modern-day Arabah, a desert valley running in a north-south orientation between the Dead Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. The exact location remains uncertain, but it is often associated with the steep ascent from the Arabah up to the plateau of the Negev. Historical and Cultural Context In the biblical narrative, Maalehacrabbim serves as a boundary marker, highlighting the territorial divisions among the tribes of Israel. The mention of scorpions in its name suggests a harsh, arid environment, which would have been a formidable natural barrier in ancient times. This area was part of the wilderness through which the Israelites traveled during their exodus from Egypt, and its challenging terrain would have been well-known to them. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the mention of Maalehacrabbim underscores the importance of land and boundaries in the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs and their descendants. The delineation of tribal territories was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land his descendants would inherit. The specific mention of geographical landmarks like Maalehacrabbim serves to root these promises in real, tangible locations, emphasizing the historical reality of God's covenant with Israel. Conclusion While Maalehacrabbim is not a major focus of biblical narrative, its role as a boundary marker highlights the importance of land in the biblical account. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in claiming and settling the land promised to them by God. Smith's Bible Dictionary Maalehacrabbim(ascent of scorpions), the full form of the name given as AKRABBIM in (Joshua 15:3) [AKRABBIM] Easton's Bible Dictionary Ascent of the scorpions; i.e., "scorpion-hill", a pass on the south-eastern border of Palestine (Numbers 34:4; Joshua 15:3). It is identified with the pass of Sufah, entering Palestine from the great Wady el-Fikreh, south of the Dead Sea. (see AKRABBIM.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAALEH-ACRABBIMma'-a-la-a-krab'-im, ma-al'-a-. Thesaurus Maalehacrabbim (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MAALEH-ACRABBIM. ma'-a-la-a-krab'-im, ma-al'-a-. See AKRABBIM. Multi-Version Concordance Maalehacrabbim (1 Occurrence). ... /m/maalehacrabbim.htm - 7k Karkaa (1 Occurrence) Kadeshbarnea (9 Occurrences) Fetched (26 Occurrences) Maaleh-acrabbim (1 Occurrence) Ma'ai (1 Occurrence) Adar (10 Occurrences) Compass (51 Occurrences) Ascended (48 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Maalehacrabbim (1 Occurrence)Joshua 15:3 Subtopics Related Terms Maaleh-acrabbim (1 Occurrence) |
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