Almon, also referred to as Alemeth, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is primarily recognized as a Levitical city within the tribal allotment of Benjamin. The name "Almon" is found in the context of the distribution of cities to the Levites, who were the priestly tribe of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 21:18 : "Anathoth, and Almon—four cities, along with their pasturelands." This verse lists Almon as one of the cities given to the descendants of Aaron, the priest, from the tribe of Benjamin. The allocation of cities to the Levites was part of the broader division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as commanded by God through Moses and later executed by Joshua.

2. 1 Chronicles 6:60 : "And from the tribe of Benjamin they were given Gibeon, Geba, Alemeth, and Anathoth, together with their pasturelands." In this passage, the city is referred to as Alemeth, highlighting the interchangeable use of the names Almon and Alemeth. This verse reiterates the allocation of the city to the Levitical priests, emphasizing its significance as a Levitical city.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Almon/Alemeth is situated within the territory of Benjamin, one of the smaller tribes of Israel. The tribe of Benjamin held a strategically important position, bordering the tribes of Judah and Ephraim. The allocation of cities like Almon to the Levites underscores the importance of providing for the priestly class, who were responsible for religious duties and maintaining the spiritual well-being of the nation.

The dual naming of the city as both Almon and Alemeth is not uncommon in biblical texts, where variations in names can occur due to transliteration differences or textual traditions. The city’s mention in the context of Levitical cities highlights its role in the religious and communal life of ancient Israel.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the allocation of cities like Almon to the Levites reflects the biblical principle of supporting those who serve in religious capacities. The Levites, who did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes, were instead given cities and pasturelands to sustain them. This arrangement ensured that the Levites could focus on their spiritual duties without the burden of agricultural labor, thus maintaining the worship and sacrificial system central to Israelite religion.

The mention of Almon/Alemeth in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the organized and divinely ordained structure of ancient Israelite society, where each tribe and family had specific roles and responsibilities. The Levites' presence in cities like Almon facilitated the teaching of the Law and the administration of justice, contributing to the spiritual and moral fabric of the nation.1 Chronicles 6:60
And out of the tribe of Benjamin; Geba with her suburbs, and Alemeth with her suburbs, and Anathoth with her suburbs. All their cities throughout their families were thirteen cities.
Nave's Topical Index

Nob. Bahurim.
... We meet with mention of Bahurim, 2 Samuel 16:5. It was a Levitical city, the same
with Almon, Joshua 21:18; which is also called Alemeth, 1 Chronicles 6:60. ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 44 nob bahurim.htm

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