Masaloth
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Masaloth is a location mentioned in the context of the ancient tribal territories of Israel. It appears in the genealogical and territorial records of the Old Testament, specifically within the allotments of land given to the tribes of Israel. The name "Masaloth" is derived from a Hebrew root that suggests pathways or journeys, which may indicate its historical significance as a place of travel or a junction of routes.

Biblical References:

Masaloth is mentioned in the context of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua. Although the Berean Standard Bible does not provide a direct quotation for Masaloth, it is traditionally associated with the region allocated to the tribe of Naphtali. The tribal allotments were part of the divine promise fulfilled as the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, a central theme in the narrative of Joshua.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The location of Masaloth is not precisely identified in modern geographical terms, but it is believed to have been situated in the northern part of ancient Israel, within the boundaries of the tribe of Naphtali. This area is characterized by its varied terrain, including hills and fertile valleys, which would have been conducive to agriculture and settlement.

The significance of Masaloth, like many other locations mentioned in the tribal allotments, lies in its role in the fulfillment of God's covenant with the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land among the tribes was a tangible expression of God's faithfulness and the establishment of Israel as a nation under His guidance.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of places like Masaloth underscores the importance of land in the biblical narrative. The land was not merely a physical inheritance but also a spiritual one, symbolizing God's provision and the establishment of His people in a place where they could worship Him and live according to His laws.

The allocation of land to the tribes, including the mention of specific locations such as Masaloth, reflects the order and structure that God intended for His people. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands, as the possession of the land was contingent upon Israel's adherence to the covenant.

Cultural and Archaeological Insights:

While specific archaeological evidence for Masaloth is limited, the broader region of Naphtali has yielded findings that provide insights into the life and culture of the Israelites during the period of the Judges and the monarchy. These findings include remnants of ancient settlements, fortifications, and artifacts that illustrate the daily life and religious practices of the time.

In summary, Masaloth, though not extensively detailed in the biblical text, represents a piece of the larger mosaic of Israel's history and God's unfolding plan for His people. Its mention in the context of the tribal allotments highlights the intricate connection between land, identity, and divine promise in the biblical narrative.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
MASALOTH

mas'-a-loth.

See MESALOTH.

Library

The Books of Samuel and Kings.
... five parts and comprise in one volume of Psalms; the third is Solomon, in three
books, Proverbs, which they call Parables, that is Masaloth, Ecclesiastes, that ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/the books of samuel and.htm

Chapter i.
... leg. for. Msloth). Masaloth, Jerome; dmethaloth, Epiphanius. [432] Origen
includes Ruth with Judges under Saphateim. [433] Epiph. ...
/.../an introduction to the old testament in greek additional notes/chapter i 2.htm

Thesaurus
Masaloth
Masaloth. Masai, Masaloth. Maschil . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MASALOTH.
mas'-a-loth. See MESALOTH. Masai, Masaloth. Maschil . ...
/m/masaloth.htm - 6k

Arbela
... who went forth by the way that leadeth to Galgala, and pitched their tents before
Masaloth, which is in Arbela, and after they had won it they slew much people ...
/a/arbela.htm - 9k

Maschil (26 Occurrences)

/m/maschil.htm - 15k

Masai (1 Occurrence)

/m/masai.htm - 6k

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