Topical Encyclopedia Keilah is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the southern part of ancient Palestine. It was one of the cities allotted to the tribe of Judah, as recorded in the Book of Joshua. The city is noted for its strategic importance and its role in the narratives of King David.Biblical References and Historical Context Keilah is first mentioned in the Bible in the context of the tribal allotments. In Joshua 15:44, it is listed among the cities in the lowland region of Judah: "Keilah, Achzib, and Mareshah—nine cities, along with their villages." This indicates its inclusion in the inheritance given to the tribe of Judah, highlighting its geographical and tribal significance. The most notable biblical event associated with Keilah is found in 1 Samuel 23. During the time when David was fleeing from King Saul, he received news that the Philistines were attacking Keilah and looting the threshing floors. David sought the Lord's guidance and was instructed to go and save the city. The narrative in 1 Samuel 23:2-5 describes David's successful campaign against the Philistines: "So David inquired of the LORD, 'Shall I go and attack these Philistines?' The LORD answered him, 'Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah.' But David’s men said to him, 'Look, we are afraid here in Judah. How much more if we go to Keilah against the Philistine forces!' Once again David inquired of the LORD, and the LORD answered him, 'Arise, go down to Keilah, for I will deliver the Philistines into your hand.' Then David and his men went to Keilah, fought against the Philistines, carried off their livestock, and inflicted heavy losses on them. Thus David saved the people of Keilah." After this victory, David stayed in Keilah, but he soon learned that Saul was plotting to besiege the city to capture him. David again sought the Lord's counsel, and upon learning that the people of Keilah would betray him to Saul, he and his men departed from the city (1 Samuel 23:10-13). Archaeological and Geographical Insights Keilah is believed to have been located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah, which served as a buffer zone between the hill country of Judah and the coastal plains occupied by the Philistines. This location made it a site of military and agricultural importance, as evidenced by the biblical account of the Philistines targeting its threshing floors. The exact location of ancient Keilah is debated among scholars, but it is often identified with the modern site of Khirbet Qila, situated southwest of Hebron. Archaeological surveys in the region have uncovered remains that suggest a settlement existed there during the Iron Age, aligning with the biblical timeline. Theological Significance The account of David at Keilah underscores themes of divine guidance, protection, and the complexities of leadership. David's reliance on God's direction in military and political matters is a testament to his faith and obedience. The narrative also highlights the precarious nature of alliances and the challenges David faced as a leader before ascending to the throne of Israel. Keilah's inclusion in the tribal allotments of Judah reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as the land was divided among the tribes of Israel. The city's role in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through the history of His people. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 15:44And Keilah, and Achzib, and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages: Nave's Topical Index Library Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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