Dinhabah is a city mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Edomite kingdom. It holds historical and biblical significance as it is associated with the early monarchic period of Edom, a region and people often in contact and conflict with the Israelites.

Biblical References:

Dinhabah is primarily noted in the genealogical and king lists of Edom found in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 36:32 , it is recorded: "Bela son of Beor reigned in Edom; his city was Dinhabah." This passage identifies Dinhabah as the royal city of Bela, the first king of Edom. The mention of Dinhabah in this context highlights its importance as a center of political power during the early formation of the Edomite kingdom.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Edom, located to the southeast of the Dead Sea, was a region inhabited by the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The Edomites were known for their interactions with the Israelites, often marked by hostility and conflict. The city of Dinhabah, as the seat of King Bela, would have been a significant urban center in Edom during this period.

The exact location of Dinhabah remains uncertain, as it is not identified with any known archaeological site today. However, its mention as a royal city suggests it was a place of considerable importance, possibly serving as a hub for administration and trade within the Edomite territory.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

The mention of Dinhabah in the biblical narrative underscores the structured nature of Edomite society, which, like Israel, had its own line of kings and established cities. This reflects the broader ancient Near Eastern context, where city-states and kingdoms were common.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Edomite kings and cities in the biblical text serves to illustrate the fulfillment of God's promises and prophecies concerning the descendants of Esau. The Edomites, though often adversaries of Israel, are acknowledged as a significant people with their own history and governance.

Edom and Israel:

The relationship between Edom and Israel is complex, characterized by both kinship and enmity. The Edomites, as descendants of Esau, were related to the Israelites, yet their interactions were frequently marked by conflict. The city of Dinhabah, as part of the Edomite kingdom, represents a piece of this intricate historical tapestry.

In summary, Dinhabah is a city of notable mention in the biblical account of Edom's early monarchy. Its role as the capital of King Bela highlights its significance in the ancient world, serving as a testament to the organized and influential nature of Edomite society during the time of the patriarchs.Genesis 36:32
And Bela the son of Beor reigned in Edom: and the name of his city was Dinhabah.
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1 Chronicles 1:43
Now these are the kings that reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the children of Israel; Bela the son of Beor: and the name of his city was Dinhabah.
Nave's Topical Index

1838. Dinhabah -- a city in Edom
... 1837, 1838. Dinhabah. 1839 . a city in Edom. Transliteration: Dinhabah
Phonetic Spelling: (din-haw-baw') Short Definition: Dinhabah. ...
/hebrew/1838.htm - 5k

Chapter xxxvi
... Now there ruled over Edom Bela, the son of Beor, and the name of his city was Dinhabah.
And Bela died and Jobab ruled in his stead, the son of Zerah of Bozrah. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

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