Topical Encyclopedia Gezer is an ancient city of significant historical and biblical importance, located in the Shephelah region of ancient Israel. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament and holds a notable place in the narrative of the Israelite settlement in Canaan.Biblical References and Allotment Gezer is first mentioned in the context of the conquest of Canaan. The city was originally inhabited by the Canaanites, and despite its strategic importance, it was not immediately conquered by the Israelites. In Joshua 16:10, the text notes, "But they did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the Ephraimites but are forced into labor." This indicates that while Gezer was within the territorial boundaries of Ephraim, the Canaanite presence persisted. The city was officially allotted to the half-tribe of Ephraim as part of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. Joshua 21:21 states, "They gave them Shechem, the city of refuge for the manslayer, with its pasturelands in the hill country of Ephraim, Gezer, with its pasturelands." This allocation underscores Gezer's role as a Levitical city, designated for the Kohathite Levites, who were responsible for various religious duties and the maintenance of the sanctuary. Historical and Archaeological Significance Gezer's strategic location on the coastal plain made it a vital city for trade and military endeavors. It controlled the route from the coastal plain to the interior of the country, making it a key point of defense and commerce. The city's significance is further highlighted by its mention in Egyptian records, such as the Amarna Letters, which reference Gezer as a city of considerable importance during the Late Bronze Age. Archaeological excavations at Gezer have uncovered substantial fortifications, water systems, and evidence of a thriving urban center. These findings corroborate the biblical narrative of Gezer as a significant Canaanite city that later became an integral part of the Israelite territory. Solomon and Gezer The city of Gezer also features in the narrative of King Solomon. In 1 Kings 9:16, it is recorded that Pharaoh, king of Egypt, captured Gezer, burned it, and killed the Canaanite inhabitants. He then gave it as a dowry to his daughter, Solomon's wife. "Pharaoh king of Egypt had attacked and captured Gezer. He had set it on fire, killed the Canaanites who lived in the city, and then given it as a wedding gift to his daughter, Solomon’s wife." This event signifies the political alliances and the expansion of Solomon's influence through marriage and diplomacy. Religious and Cultural Context Gezer's inclusion as a Levitical city highlights its religious significance. As a city given to the Levites, it served as a center for religious instruction and worship. The Levites played a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual life of the nation, and cities like Gezer were vital in ensuring the dissemination of religious teachings and practices. In summary, Gezer's allotment to the half-tribe of Ephraim and its designation as a Levitical city underscore its importance in the biblical narrative. Its strategic location, historical significance, and religious role make it a noteworthy city in the context of ancient Israel. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 16:3,10And goes down westward to the coast of Japhleti, to the coast of Bethhoron the nether, and to Gezer; and the goings out thereof are at the sea. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 7:28 Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is the structure of the Jewish calendar? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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