Topical Bible: Cattle: Bashan Suitable to the Raising of

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Bashan, a region frequently mentioned in the Bible, is renowned for its fertile lands and suitability for cattle raising. This area, located east of the Jordan River, is characterized by its rich pastures and abundant resources, making it an ideal location for livestock.

The biblical references to Bashan highlight its significance as a land of prosperity and abundance. In Deuteronomy 32:14, the Berean Standard Bible describes the produce of Bashan, noting, "with curds from the herd and milk from the flock, with the fat of lambs, rams of Bashan and goats, with the finest of the wheat, and the blood of grapes you drank." This passage underscores the region's capacity to support a thriving cattle industry, providing not only sustenance but also luxury.

The "rams of Bashan" are specifically mentioned in several biblical texts, indicating the high quality of livestock produced in this region. Ezekiel 39:18 refers to the "flesh of the mighty, the flesh of the princes of the earth, as rams, lambs, goats, and bulls—all of them fatlings of Bashan." This imagery conveys the strength and vitality of the cattle raised in Bashan, further emphasizing the area's reputation for producing robust and healthy animals.

Psalm 22:12 metaphorically describes the strength and power of the "strong bulls of Bashan" that surround the psalmist, illustrating the formidable nature of the cattle from this region. The reference to these bulls in a context of strength and intimidation highlights the exceptional quality and might of Bashan's livestock.

The geographical features of Bashan contribute significantly to its suitability for cattle raising. The region is known for its volcanic soil, which is rich in nutrients and supports lush vegetation. This fertile environment provides ample grazing opportunities for cattle, ensuring their growth and health. The climate of Bashan, with its adequate rainfall and temperate conditions, further enhances its capacity to sustain large herds.

Historically, Bashan was a territory inhabited by the Amorites and later conquered by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses. The land was allocated to the half-tribe of Manasseh, who utilized its resources for agriculture and livestock. Numbers 32:33 records this allocation: "So Moses gave to the Gadites, the Reubenites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh son of Joseph the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan—the land with its cities and the territory surrounding them."

The prosperity of Bashan as a center for cattle raising is also reflected in its mention in prophetic literature. In Amos 4:1 , the "cows of Bashan" are used metaphorically to describe the indulgence and opulence of the people of Samaria, indicating the wealth associated with the region's livestock.

In summary, Bashan's reputation as a land suitable for cattle raising is well-documented in the Bible. Its fertile pastures, rich soil, and favorable climate make it an ideal location for livestock, contributing to its historical and theological significance as a symbol of abundance and strength.

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Psalm 22:12
Many bulls have compassed me: strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round.
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Ezekiel 39:18
You shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth, of rams, of lambs, and of goats, of bullocks, all of them fatted calves of Bashan.
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Amos 4:1
Hear this word, you cows of Bashan, that are in the mountain of Samaria, which oppress the poor, which crush the needy, which say to their masters, Bring, and let us drink.
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Library

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The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... olive is easily acclimatised, and the vine produces grapes equally suitable for
the ... and maketh it dry, and drieth up all the rivers: Bashan languisheth, and ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm