Hormah is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. The name "Hormah" is derived from the Hebrew word "ḥērem," meaning "devotion" or "destruction," reflecting its history as a place of divine judgment and victory.

Biblical References and Historical Context

Hormah first appears in the biblical narrative during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. In Numbers 14:45 , after the Israelites' initial refusal to enter the Promised Land due to fear of the inhabitants, they attempted to go up to the hill country against the LORD's command. The Amalekites and Canaanites who lived in that region came down and defeated them, pursuing them as far as Hormah. This defeat underscored the consequences of disobedience to God's direct instructions.

Later, in Numbers 21:3 , the Israelites, under divine guidance, achieved victory over the Canaanites at Hormah. The text states, "And the LORD listened to Israel’s plea and delivered up the Canaanites. They devoted them and their cities to destruction; so the place was called Hormah." This victory marked a turning point, demonstrating God's faithfulness in granting success when His people acted in obedience.

Allotment to the Tribe of Simeon

Hormah's significance extends into the period of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. In the division of the land, Hormah was allotted to the tribe of Simeon. Joshua 19:1-4 details the inheritance of the Simeonites, listing Hormah among the cities within their territory. The passage reads, "The second lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Simeon: Their inheritance lay within the territory of Judah. It included Beersheba (or Sheba), Moladah, Hazar-shual, Balah, Ezem, Eltolad, Bethul, Hormah..."

The inclusion of Hormah in Simeon's inheritance is noteworthy, as the tribe of Simeon did not receive a separate territory but rather shared land within the larger allotment of Judah. This arrangement reflects the close relationship between the tribes and the fulfillment of Jacob's prophecy in Genesis 49:7 , where Simeon and Levi are described as being scattered in Israel.

Theological Significance

Hormah serves as a testament to the themes of judgment, obedience, and divine deliverance. The initial defeat at Hormah highlights the consequences of acting contrary to God's will, while the subsequent victory underscores the blessings of faithfulness and reliance on divine guidance. The city's allotment to Simeon within Judah's territory also illustrates the interconnectedness of the tribes and the unfolding of God's covenant promises to the descendants of Abraham.

In summary, Hormah stands as a historical and theological landmark within the biblical narrative, symbolizing both the challenges and triumphs of the Israelite journey and settlement in the land promised to their forefathers.Joshua 19:4
And Eltolad, and Bethul, and Hormah,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 4:30
And at Bethuel, and at Hormah, and at Ziklag,
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of the defeat of the Israelites at Hormah; and cf. ... spoil, and assigned to each tribe
his allotted portion of ... that the people of Judah aided the tribe of Simeon ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Who were the Amalekites? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus