Topical Encyclopedia Mount Ephraim, also referred to as the hill country of Ephraim, is a significant geographical and historical region in the central part of ancient Israel. It is named after the tribe of Ephraim, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, which descended from Joseph's son Ephraim. This region is characterized by its hilly terrain and fertile valleys, making it a vital area for agriculture and settlement in biblical times.Biblical Significance: 1. Tribal Inheritance: Mount Ephraim was allotted to the tribe of Ephraim as part of their inheritance in the Promised Land. The tribe of Ephraim, being one of the leading tribes of Israel, held a prominent position, and their territory included some of the most fertile and strategically important lands. Joshua 16:5-6 describes the borders of Ephraim's inheritance: "This was the territory of the descendants of Ephraim by their clans: The border of their inheritance went from Ataroth-addar in the east to Upper Beth-horon." 2. Religious and Cultural Center: The region of Mount Ephraim was home to several significant religious and cultural sites. Shiloh, located within the territory of Ephraim, served as the religious center of Israel before the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital. It was at Shiloh that the Tabernacle was set up, and the Ark of the Covenant was housed for many years (Joshua 18:1). 3. Judges and Leaders: Several notable biblical figures hailed from Mount Ephraim. One of the most prominent was Joshua, the successor of Moses and a key leader in the conquest of Canaan. Joshua's leadership and faithfulness were instrumental in the establishment of the Israelites in the Promised Land. Additionally, Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim (Judges 4:4-5). 4. Historical Events: Mount Ephraim was the backdrop for various historical events recorded in the Bible. It was in this region that the infamous incident of the Levite and his concubine took place, leading to a civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel (Judges 19-21). Furthermore, the rebellion of Abimelech, the son of Gideon, occurred in Shechem, a city within the territory of Ephraim (Judges 9). 5. Prophetic References: The prophets often referenced Ephraim in their messages, using the tribe as a representative of the northern kingdom of Israel. Hosea, in particular, frequently addressed Ephraim in his prophecies, highlighting the tribe's idolatry and calling for repentance (Hosea 4:17: "Ephraim is joined to idols; leave him alone!"). Geographical Features: Mount Ephraim is characterized by its rugged hills and fertile valleys, which provided a natural defense and abundant resources for its inhabitants. The region's topography made it a strategic location for settlements and fortifications. The central position of Mount Ephraim within the land of Israel also made it a crossroads for trade and communication between the northern and southern tribes. Cultural Influence: The tribe of Ephraim, as one of the dominant tribes, exerted considerable influence over the cultural and political landscape of ancient Israel. The Ephraimites were known for their strength and valor, as well as their occasional conflicts with neighboring tribes. Their central location and fertile land contributed to their prosperity and prominence in the biblical narrative. In summary, Mount Ephraim holds a place of great importance in the biblical history of Israel. Its geographical features, historical events, and cultural significance are woven throughout the biblical narrative, highlighting its role as a central and influential region in the life of the Israelite nation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Mount EphraimMOUNT EPHRAIM See EPHRAIM, MOUNT. Smith's Bible Dictionary Mount Ephraimis a district which seems to extend as far south as Ramah and Bethel, (1 Samuel 1:1; 7:17; 2 Chronicles 13:4,19) compared with 2Chr 15:8 Places but a few miles north of Jerusalem, and within the limits of Benjamin. Library Beth-El. Beth-Aven. Samaria. Sychem. On Deut. xxxiii. Ii The Cities of Refuge The Six Cities. Of the Cities of Refuge. National Apostasy The Prophet --His Youth and his Call. 'A Mirror for Magistrates' Political Religion Resources What is the significance of Mount Horeb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Mount Nebo in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Mount Carmel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Mount: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |