Geographical and Historical Context:
Gebal, known in modern times as Byblos, is an ancient city located on the coast of present-day Lebanon, south of Sidon. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back to the third millennium BC. The city was a significant center of trade and culture in the ancient Near East, particularly known for its association with the production and export of papyrus, which contributed to its Greek name, Byblos.

Biblical References:
In the Bible, Gebal is mentioned in the context of its skilled craftsmen and shipbuilders. The city is referenced in Ezekiel 27:9, where the prophet Ezekiel describes the grandeur and wealth of Tyre, a neighboring city, and its reliance on the expertise of Gebal's craftsmen: "The elders of Gebal and their skilled workers were within you, repairing your leaks. All the ships of the sea and their sailors came alongside to barter for your goods."

This passage highlights the reputation of Gebal's artisans, who were sought after for their expertise in shipbuilding and repair, contributing to the maritime prowess of the region. The mention of Gebal in this context underscores the city's importance in the ancient world as a hub of skilled labor and trade.

Cultural and Religious Significance:
Gebal was not only a center of commerce but also of religious activity. The city was a focal point for the worship of Baal and other Canaanite deities. Its religious significance is further emphasized by its connection to the myth of Adonis and the goddess Astarte, which were central to the religious practices in the region.

Archaeological Insights:
Archaeological excavations in Gebal have uncovered a wealth of information about its ancient past, including temples, inscriptions, and artifacts that provide insight into its role as a cultural and religious center. The city's ancient ruins, including the Temple of Baalat Gebal, offer a glimpse into the religious practices and architectural achievements of its inhabitants.

Role in Biblical Prophecy:
While Gebal itself is not a primary focus of biblical prophecy, its mention in the context of Tyre's judgment in Ezekiel serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the ancient cities and their shared destinies. The skilled workers of Gebal, contributing to the prosperity of Tyre, also become part of the narrative of Tyre's eventual downfall as prophesied by Ezekiel.

Conclusion:
Gebal's legacy as a city of skilled artisans and its role in the ancient maritime economy are well-documented in both biblical and archaeological records. Its mention in the Bible, though brief, highlights the city's significance in the ancient world and its contribution to the cultural and economic landscape of the region.Ezekiel 27:9
The ancients of Gebal and the wise men thereof were in you your caulkers: all the ships of the sea with their mariners were in you to occupy your merchandise.
Nave's Topical Index

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... a stream on the south. The number of inhabitants sheltered behind these defences
was perhaps 300,000 souls;* each separate quarter of the city was enclosed by ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Who was the Asaph mentioned in the Book of Psalms? | GotQuestions.org

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