Topical Encyclopedia Madmenah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. The name "Madmenah" is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "dunghill" or "manure heap," which may suggest its original function or a characteristic of the area. It is referenced in the context of a prophecy concerning the Assyrian invasion of Judah.Biblical Reference: The primary mention of Madmenah is found in Isaiah 10:31. The passage is part of a larger prophecy describing the advance of the Assyrian army as it approaches Jerusalem. The verse reads: "Madmenah flees; the people of Gebim take refuge" (Isaiah 10:31). This indicates that Madmenah was a location on the route of the Assyrian advance, and its inhabitants were in a state of panic and flight due to the impending threat. Geographical Context: The exact location of Madmenah is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the northern part of the Kingdom of Judah, possibly near the city of Jerusalem. Its mention alongside Gebim, another location whose precise site is also uncertain, suggests that Madmenah was part of a series of settlements or towns that were affected by the Assyrian campaign. Historical and Theological Significance: From a historical perspective, the mention of Madmenah in Isaiah 10:31 provides insight into the geopolitical landscape of Judah during the 8th century BC. The Assyrian Empire, under the leadership of kings such as Tiglath-Pileser III and Sennacherib, was a dominant force in the Near East, and its military campaigns posed a significant threat to the smaller kingdoms, including Judah. Theologically, the prophecy in Isaiah 10 serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the eventual downfall of the Assyrian oppressors. The passage highlights the fear and turmoil experienced by the people of Judah, yet it also underscores the assurance of divine intervention and protection for God's chosen people. The flight of Madmenah's inhabitants symbolizes the broader theme of human vulnerability in the face of overwhelming power, contrasted with the ultimate deliverance promised by God. Cultural and Archaeological Considerations: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly associated with Madmenah, the study of similar sites in the region provides valuable context for understanding the living conditions and societal structures of small Judean towns during the Iron Age. These settlements were often fortified and strategically located to serve as defensive outposts or agricultural hubs. In summary, Madmenah's brief mention in the Bible serves as a testament to the historical realities faced by the people of Judah and the enduring message of hope and divine providence found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. Smith's Bible Dictionary Madmenah(dunghill), one of the, Benjamite villages north of Jerusalem the inhabitants of which were frightened away by the approach of Sennacherib along the northern road. (Isaiah 10:31) ATS Bible Dictionary MadmenahA town not far from Jerusalem, site not known, Isaiah 10:31. Easton's Bible Dictionary Ibid., a town in Benjamin, not far from Jerusalem, towards the north (Isaiah 10:31). The same Hebrew word occurs in Isaiah 25:10, where it is rendered "dunghill." This verse has, however, been interpreted as meaning "that Moab will be trodden down by Jehovah as teben [broken straw] is trodden to fragments on the threshing-floors of Madmenah." International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MADMENAHmad-me'-na (madhmenah; Madebena): A place mentioned only in Isaiah's description of the Assyrian advance upon Jerusalem (Isaiah 10:31). It is not identified. Strong's Hebrew 4088. Madmenah -- a place in Benjamin... 4087, 4088. Madmenah. 4089 . a place in Benjamin. Transliteration: Madmenah Phonetic Spelling: (mad-may-naw') Short Definition: Madmenah. ... /hebrew/4088.htm - 6k 4087. madmenah -- place of dung, dung pit 4089. Madmannah -- a city in S. Judah, also a descendant of Caleb Thesaurus Madmenah (1 Occurrence)... been interpreted as meaning "that Moab will be trodden down by Jehovah as teben [broken straw] is trodden to fragments on the threshing-floors of Madmenah.". ... /m/madmenah.htm - 7k Madme'nah (1 Occurrence) Gebim (1 Occurrence) Fugitive (12 Occurrences) Mad-men (1 Occurrence) Mad (22 Occurrences) Safety (72 Occurrences) Refuge (111 Occurrences) Hardened (45 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Madmenah (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 10:31 Subtopics Madmenah: A City of the Tribe of Benjamin Related Terms |
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