Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:The term "Abel" in the context of "A Stone" is not directly associated with the biblical figure Abel, the son of Adam and Eve, but rather refers to various geographical locations and symbolic uses of stones in the Bible. The word "Abel" itself can mean "meadow" or "stream," but when combined with other terms, it often denotes specific places or events involving stones. Biblical References: 1. Abel-meholah: · Abel-meholah is a location mentioned in the context of Gideon's battle against the Midianites. It is described as a place near the Jordan River. The name itself does not directly translate to "a stone," but it is part of the broader landscape of biblical geography where stones often play significant roles in demarcating territories or serving as memorials. · Reference: Judges 7:22 · "When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the LORD set the sword of one man against another throughout the camp, and the army fled to Beth-shittah toward Zererah as far as the border of Abel-meholah near Tabbath." 2. Abel-beth-maacah: · Abel-beth-maacah is another location that features prominently in the narrative of Sheba's rebellion against King David. The city is besieged, and a wise woman negotiates with Joab to save it. The use of stones in fortifications and as projectiles in warfare is implicit in such accounts. · Reference: 2 Samuel 20:14-15 · "Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel-beth-maacah and through the entire region of the Berites, who gathered together and followed him. And Joab’s troops came and besieged Sheba in Abel-beth-maacah. They built a siege ramp against the outer rampart of the city, and it stood against the rampart." 3. Stones as Memorials: · Throughout the Bible, stones are frequently used as memorials to commemorate significant events or covenants. For example, Jacob sets up a stone pillar at Bethel to mark the place where God spoke to him. · Reference: Genesis 28:18 · "Early the next morning, Jacob took the stone that he had placed under his head, and he set it up as a pillar. He poured oil on top of it." 4. Symbolic Use of Stones: · Stones often symbolize strength, permanence, and divine intervention. In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the cornerstone, indicating His foundational role in the faith. · Reference: Ephesians 2:20 · "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, stones were not only practical tools and building materials but also held religious and cultural significance. They were used in altars, boundary markers, and as witnesses to covenants. The biblical use of stones often reflects these broader cultural practices, emphasizing their role in both everyday life and spiritual symbolism. Conclusion: The concept of "Abel: A Stone" encompasses a range of biblical themes and locations where stones play a crucial role. Whether as part of a place name, a tool in warfare, or a symbol of divine promise, stones are integral to the biblical narrative and its theological messages. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 6:18And the golden mice, according to the number of all the cities of the Philistines belonging to the five lords, both of fenced cities, and of country villages, even to the great stone of Abel, where on they set down the ark of the LORD: which stone remains to this day in the field of Joshua, the Bethshemite. Nave's Topical Index Library The Criminal and his Relation to Society. Concerning the Posterity of Adam, and the Ten Generations from Him ... On the Church On the Faith. On the Sacrifice of the Mass The Open Door. The "Demonstrations" of Aphrahat. The Voice of the Blood of Christ Letter S The Law Anterior to Moses. Resources What is the meaning of the phrase raising Cain? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Cain's wife? Was Cain's wife his sister? | GotQuestions.org What is the Book of Adam and Eve? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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