Topical Encyclopedia Ashtaroth, also known as Ashtaroth-Karnaim, is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament, recognized as the capital of Bashan. This ancient city is notable for its association with the Rephaim, a group of giants who inhabited the region. The city is referenced in several biblical passages, highlighting its historical and theological importance.Biblical References and Historical Context Ashtaroth is first mentioned in Genesis 14:5, where it is recorded as the location where Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him defeated the Rephaim. The Berean Standard Bible states: "In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings allied with him went out and defeated the Rephaim in Ashtaroth-Karnaim, the Zuzites in Ham, the Emites in Shaveh-kiriathaim." The city is also noted in the context of the conquests of the Israelites. In Deuteronomy 1:4, Moses recounts the defeat of Og, the king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth: "This was after he had defeated Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon, and at Edrei had defeated Og king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth." The Rephaim and the Giants of Bashan The Rephaim, often described as giants, are a recurring theme in the biblical narrative concerning Ashtaroth. The presence of these formidable inhabitants underscores the challenges faced by the Israelites during their conquest of the Promised Land. The Rephaim are depicted as a powerful and ancient people, with Og, king of Bashan, being one of the last of their kind. Deuteronomy 3:11 provides insight into Og's stature: "For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of the Rephaim. His bed was made of iron; it is still in Rabbah of the Ammonites. It is nine cubits long and four cubits wide, by the standard cubit." Ashtaroth in the Tribal Allotments Following the conquest of the land, Ashtaroth became part of the territory allotted to the half-tribe of Manasseh. Joshua 13:31 records this allocation: "Half of Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, the cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, were for the children of Machir son of Manasseh, for half of the children of Machir by their clans." Cultural and Religious Significance Ashtaroth's name is often associated with the Canaanite goddess Astarte, reflecting the syncretism and idolatry that the Israelites encountered in the land. The city's name itself suggests a connection to the worship of this deity, which was prevalent among the Canaanite peoples. This idolatrous influence posed a continual challenge to the Israelites, as they were called to remain faithful to the worship of Yahweh. Conclusion Ashtaroth stands as a testament to the historical and spiritual battles faced by the Israelites. Its association with the Rephaim and its role as a center of idolatry highlight the complexities of the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The biblical narrative of Ashtaroth serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in delivering His people and the ongoing struggle against the influences of surrounding cultures. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 12:4And the coast of Og king of Bashan, which was of the remnant of the giants, that dwelled at Ashtaroth and at Edrei, Nave's Topical Index Library Canaan Resources Who was Asherah / Ashtoreth? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the Queen of Heaven? | GotQuestions.org Why was the worship of Baal and Asherah a constant struggle for the Israelites? | GotQuestions.org Ashtaroth: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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