Jahzah: A City of the Tribe of Reuben
Jump to: Nave'sSubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Biblical References:
Jahzah, also spelled Jahaz or Jahaza, is a city mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the tribe of Reuben. It is noted for its significance in the territorial allotments and historical events involving the Israelites.

Location and Allotment:
Jahzah is located in the region east of the Jordan River, within the territory allocated to the tribe of Reuben. This area was part of the land conquered from the Amorite king Sihon. The city is mentioned in the context of the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 13:18, the Berean Standard Bible states: "Jahaz, Kedemoth, Mephaath."

Historical Significance:
Jahzah holds historical importance due to the battle that took place there between the Israelites and the Amorites. This battle is a pivotal moment in Israelite history, marking the beginning of their conquest of the Transjordan region. In Numbers 21:23-24 , the account of this battle is recorded: "But Sihon would not let Israel pass through his territory. Instead, he gathered all his troops and went out to the wilderness to confront Israel. When he came to Jahaz, he fought against Israel. And Israel put him to the sword and took possession of his land from the Arnon to the Jabbok, but only up to the border of the Ammonites, because it was fortified."

Levitical City:
Jahzah was also designated as a Levitical city, assigned to the Merarite Levites. This designation underscores its religious and cultural significance within the Israelite community. The Levites, who were responsible for religious duties and the maintenance of the tabernacle, were given cities throughout Israel, including Jahzah, to dwell in. This is noted in 1 Chronicles 6:78 : "From the tribe of Reuben east of the Jordan opposite Jericho, they were given Bezer in the wilderness, Jahzah,"

Cultural and Theological Context:
The city of Jahzah, like other Levitical cities, served as a center for religious instruction and worship. The presence of the Levites would have facilitated the teaching of the Law and the observance of religious practices among the Israelites in the region. Jahzah's role as a Levitical city highlights the importance of maintaining a spiritual and moral foundation within the community, as prescribed by the Mosaic Law.

Conclusion:
Jahzah's mention in the biblical narrative emphasizes its role in the early history of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land. Its association with the tribe of Reuben, the battle against the Amorites, and its status as a Levitical city contribute to its significance in the biblical account.
Nave's Topical Index
1 Chronicles 6:78
And on the other side Jordan by Jericho, on the east side of Jordan, were given them out of the tribe of Reuben, Bezer in the wilderness with her suburbs, and Jahzah with her suburbs,
Nave's Topical Index

Resources
Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Jahzah
Top of Page
Top of Page