Topical Encyclopedia Gibeah, often referred to as "Gibeah in the Field," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, distinct from the more frequently referenced Gibeah of Benjamin. The term "Gibeah" itself means "hill" in Hebrew, and it is a name shared by several locations in ancient Israel. Gibeah in the Field is specifically noted in the context of the tribal allotments and historical narratives of the Israelites.Biblical References: Gibeah in the Field is mentioned in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 20:31. The passage describes a battle involving the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel. The verse states: "The Benjamites came out against the people and were drawn away from the city. They began to inflict casualties on the Israelites as before, on the roads—one of which goes up to Bethel and the other to Gibeah in the field—killing about thirty men of Israel." (Judges 20:31). This reference situates Gibeah in the Field as a strategic location during the conflict. Historical and Geographical Context: Gibeah in the Field is believed to be located in the territory of Benjamin, although its exact location remains uncertain. The description of it being "in the field" suggests it was situated in a more open or rural area, possibly used for agriculture or as a strategic military site. The distinction from the more urban Gibeah of Saul, the royal city of King Saul, indicates its unique role in the biblical narrative. Cultural and Theological Significance: The events surrounding Gibeah in the Field highlight the internal strife and moral challenges faced by the Israelites during the period of the Judges. The conflict involving the Benjamites and the other tribes of Israel underscores themes of justice, retribution, and the consequences of sin within the community. The narrative serves as a reminder of the need for unity and adherence to God's commandments. Archaeological Insights: While Gibeah in the Field has not been definitively identified through archaeological evidence, its mention in the biblical text contributes to the understanding of the geographical and tribal dynamics of ancient Israel. The ongoing exploration of sites in the region continues to provide insights into the historical context of the biblical narrative. Conclusion: Gibeah in the Field remains a significant yet enigmatic location within the biblical account. Its mention in the context of the tribal conflicts of Israel offers a glimpse into the complex social and spiritual landscape of the time. The narrative associated with Gibeah in the Field serves as a testament to the enduring themes of justice, repentance, and the pursuit of righteousness in the history of God's people. Nave's Topical Index Judges 20:31And the children of Benjamin went out against the people, and were drawn away from the city; and they began to smite of the people, and kill, as at other times, in the highways, of which one goes up to the house of God, and the other to Gibeah in the field, about thirty men of Israel. Nave's Topical Index Library Jonathan's Brave Deed How, after the Death of Joshua their Commander, the Israelites ... 'Fruit which is Death' How Samuel Found a Leader Jonathan, the Pattern of Friendship The First Kings. The Story of David, the Shepherd Boy The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus David the Shepherd Youth. The Israelites Resources Who was Eleazar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the story of the Levite and his concubine? | GotQuestions.org Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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