Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Mear'ah, meaning "cave" in Hebrew, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. It is noted for its geographical and historical significance in the context of ancient Israel and its neighboring territories. Biblical References: Mear'ah is specifically mentioned in the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 13:4, the Berean Standard Bible (BSB) states: "on the south, all the land of the Canaanites, from Arah that belongs to the Sidonians as far as Aphek, to the border of the Amorites." The term "Mear'ah" is often associated with the region of the Sidonians, indicating its location within the broader context of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel. Geographical Context: Mear'ah is traditionally identified with a cave or a region near the ancient city of Sidon, which is located in present-day Lebanon. The Sidonians were a significant Canaanite people, and their territory extended along the Mediterranean coast. The mention of Mear'ah in the context of Sidonian land suggests its importance as a landmark or a boundary marker during the time of the Israelite conquest and settlement. Historical Significance: The reference to Mear'ah in the Book of Joshua highlights the extent of the land that was to be conquered and settled by the Israelites. It underscores the comprehensive nature of the territorial descriptions provided in the biblical narrative, which served to delineate the inheritance of the tribes of Israel. The inclusion of Mear'ah in these descriptions reflects the detailed record-keeping and the importance of territorial boundaries in the ancient Near Eastern context. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Mear'ah is limited, the general area around Sidon has been the subject of numerous archaeological studies. These studies have provided insights into the Canaanite culture and the interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. The identification of Mear'ah with a cave or a specific landmark remains a topic of scholarly interest, contributing to the broader understanding of the biblical landscape. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of Mear'ah in the biblical text serves as a reminder of God's promise to the Israelites regarding the land of Canaan. It reflects the fulfillment of divine promises and the establishment of Israel's territorial inheritance. The detailed descriptions of land and boundaries in the Bible emphasize the historical reality of God's covenant with His people and the tangible nature of His blessings. Conclusion: Mear'ah, as a biblical location, holds significance in the narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. Its mention in the context of Sidonian territory provides valuable insights into the geographical and historical setting of the biblical account. Through its inclusion in the scriptural record, Mear'ah contributes to the understanding of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the people of Israel. Concordance Mear'ah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 13:4 Thesaurus Mear'ah (1 Occurrence)Mear'ah. Mearah, Mear'ah. Measure . Multi-Version Concordance Mear'ah (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:4 on the south; all the land of ... /m/mear'ah.htm - 6k Mearah (1 Occurrence) Measure (269 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |