Topical Encyclopedia Adullam is an ancient city located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Canaan, which holds significant historical and biblical importance. The city is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, serving as a backdrop for key events in the lives of biblical figures, particularly King David.Geographical and Historical Context Adullam is situated in the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah, as described in the Book of Joshua. The city is part of the Shephelah, a region characterized by rolling hills and fertile valleys, which served as a buffer zone between the coastal plains and the central highlands of Judah. The strategic location of Adullam made it an important site during various military campaigns and conflicts throughout biblical history. Biblical References 1. David's Refuge: One of the most notable mentions of Adullam is in connection with David, who sought refuge in the Cave of Adullam while fleeing from King Saul. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 22:1-2 : "So David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father’s household heard about it, they went down to him there. And all those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. About four hundred men were with him." This passage highlights Adullam as a place of refuge and gathering for those loyal to David during his time of distress. 2. Military Significance: Adullam is also mentioned in the context of military campaigns. In 2 Samuel 23:13-17, the "Three mighty men" of David broke through the Philistine lines to draw water from the well of Bethlehem, near Adullam, demonstrating the city's proximity to key military engagements. 3. Prophetic References: The prophet Micah references Adullam in Micah 1:15 : "I will again bring a conqueror against you, O inhabitant of Mareshah. The glory of Israel will come to Adullam." This prophecy underscores the city's symbolic significance as a place of retreat and the shifting fortunes of Israel. Archaeological Insights Archaeological excavations in the region have uncovered remains that provide insights into the ancient city's structure and significance. The findings include fortifications, pottery, and other artifacts that date back to the Canaanite and Israelite periods, corroborating the biblical narrative of Adullam as a fortified city. Cultural and Theological Significance Adullam holds a place of cultural and theological importance in the biblical narrative. It represents a place of refuge and transformation, where David, anointed but not yet king, gathered a loyal following and prepared for his future role as the leader of Israel. The account of Adullam emphasizes themes of divine providence, leadership, and the gathering of a faithful remnant during times of trial. In summary, Adullam is more than just an ancient city; it is a symbol of God's provision and protection for His chosen leaders and people. Its mention in the biblical text serves as a reminder of the faithfulness and resilience required to fulfill God's purposes amidst adversity. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 38:1And it came to pass at that time, that Judah went down from his brothers, and turned in to a certain Adullamite, whose name was Hirah. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 12:15 Joshua 15:35 2 Chronicles 11:7 Nehemiah 11:30 Micah 1:15 Library The Old Testament and Archeology The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources What was the Cave of Adullam? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Judah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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