Definition and Meaning:
Mishor is a Hebrew term that generally means "level place" or "plain." In the biblical context, it refers to a geographical region characterized by its flat and fertile terrain. The term is often associated with the tablelands east of the Jordan River, particularly in the territory of Reuben and Gad.

Biblical References:
Mishor is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial descriptions and conquests. One of the key references is found in Joshua 13:9, which describes the land given to the tribe of Reuben: "from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, and from the city in the middle of the valley, and all the tableland of Medeba as far as Dibon." The "tableland" here is translated from the Hebrew word "Mishor."

Another significant mention is in Joshua 13:16-17, which further delineates the territory: "And their territory was from Aroer, which is on the edge of the Valley of the Arnon, and the city that is in the middle of the valley, and all the tableland by Medeba; Heshbon, and all its cities that are in the tableland." This passage highlights the extent of the Mishor region, emphasizing its importance as a fertile and strategic area.

Geographical Significance:
The Mishor region is part of the Transjordan Plateau, known for its agricultural potential due to its flat and arable land. It played a crucial role in the settlement patterns of the Israelite tribes, particularly Reuben and Gad, who chose this area for its suitability for livestock and farming. The region's fertility and strategic location made it a valuable asset for the tribes that settled there.

Historical Context:
During the conquest of Canaan, the Mishor region was part of the territories captured by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses and later Joshua. It was initially inhabited by the Amorites and other Canaanite tribes before being allocated to the tribes of Reuben and Gad. The region's cities, such as Heshbon and Dibon, were significant urban centers in the ancient Near East.

Theological Implications:
The allocation of the Mishor region to the tribes of Reuben and Gad reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the land of Canaan. It also illustrates the importance of obedience and faithfulness in receiving God's blessings. The fertile plains of Mishor served as a tangible representation of God's provision and care for His people.

Cultural and Economic Aspects:
The Mishor region, with its fertile plains, was ideal for agriculture and livestock, which were central to the economy and sustenance of the Israelite tribes. The abundance of resources in this area contributed to the prosperity and stability of the tribes that settled there. The region's cities also served as centers of trade and cultural exchange, further enhancing its significance in the biblical narrative.

Conclusion:
While the Mishor region is not frequently mentioned in the biblical text, its role as a fertile and strategic area highlights its importance in the history and settlement of the Israelite tribes. The references to Mishor in the Bible underscore the themes of divine provision, fulfillment of promises, and the significance of the land in the covenant relationship between God and His people.MISHOR

mi'-shor.

See PLAIN, and also note in HDB, III, 309.

4334. mishor -- a level place, uprightness
mishor or mishor. 4333, 4334. mishor or mishor. 4335 . a level place,
uprightness. Transliteration: mishor or mishor Phonetic ...
/hebrew/4334.htm - 6kMishor
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MISHOR. mi'-shor.
See PLAIN, and also note in HDB, III, 309. ...
/m/mishor.htm - 6k

Medeba (5 Occurrences)
... It lay in the Mishor, the high pastoral land of Moab. The district in which
the city stood is called the Mishor or plain of Medeba ...
/m/medeba.htm - 12k

Plain (113 Occurrences)
... (5.) Hebrews mishor, "level ground," smooth ... Note the distinction between mishor used
of the highlands, and kikkar and `arabhah used of the ghaur. See ARABAH. ...
/p/plain.htm - 71k

Mishneh

/m/mishneh.htm - 7k

Minnith (2 Occurrences)
... exported to Tyre (Ezek. 27:17). It was probably somewhere in the Mishor or
table-land on the east of Jordan. There is a gentle valley ...
/m/minnith.htm - 8k

Mishpat (1 Occurrence)

/m/mishpat.htm - 6k

Bezer (5 Occurrences)
... zer (betser; Bosor, "strong"): (1) A city of refuge, set apart by Moses for the
Reubenites and located in the "plain country" (or table-land, Mishor) East of ...
/b/bezer.htm - 9k

Sharon (9 Occurrences)
... He would therefore identify Sharon with the pasture lands of Hermon. Others
think that the mishor or table-land of Gilead is intended. ...
/s/sharon.htm - 13k

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