Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Significance:Mamre is a significant location in the biblical narrative, primarily associated with the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac. It is described as a plain near Hebron, a city in the southern part of ancient Canaan, which is present-day West Bank. The area is notable for its historical and spiritual importance, serving as a backdrop for several key events in the lives of the patriarchs. Abraham's Connection to Mamre: Mamre first comes into prominence in the Bible in connection with Abraham. It is here that Abraham settled after parting ways with his nephew Lot. The plain of Mamre is mentioned as a place where Abraham pitched his tent and built an altar to the LORD, signifying his devotion and worship (Genesis 13:18). This location becomes a central hub for Abraham's interactions with God and others. One of the most significant events at Mamre is the appearance of the LORD to Abraham in the form of three visitors. This theophany, recorded in Genesis 18, occurs by the oaks of Mamre. Here, Abraham receives the promise of a son, Isaac, despite the advanced age of both himself and his wife, Sarah. The hospitality Abraham extends to these visitors is a model of righteousness and faithfulness. Isaac's Residence: Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, also has a connection to Mamre. After the death of his father, Isaac continues to live in the region. Genesis 35:27 states, "Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre, near Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), where Abraham and Isaac had dwelt." This passage highlights Mamre as a familial dwelling place, linking the generations of the patriarchs. Cultural and Historical Context: Mamre's location near Hebron places it within a region rich in biblical history. Hebron itself is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds a significant place in the biblical narrative. The association of Mamre with the oaks or terebinths suggests a landscape that was both fertile and strategically important for pastoral life. Theological Implications: The events at Mamre underscore themes of faith, promise, and divine encounter. Abraham's interactions with God at Mamre highlight the covenantal relationship between God and His chosen people. The promise of Isaac, given at Mamre, is a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's plan for the descendants of Abraham, ultimately leading to the nation of Israel and the coming of the Messiah. Conclusion: Mamre, as a plain near Hebron, serves as a significant geographical and spiritual landmark in the biblical narrative. It is a place where God's promises are affirmed and where the patriarchs demonstrate faith and obedience. The legacy of Mamre continues to resonate through the biblical text, offering insights into the nature of God's covenant with His people. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 35:27And Jacob came to Isaac his father to Mamre, to the city of Arbah, which is Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac sojourned. Nave's Topical Index Library Abraham's Four Surrenders Chapter xxxv Chapter xxxiv The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Letter Lxvi. To Pammachius. Chapter xlix Resources Who were the three men who visited Abraham in Genesis 18? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the cave of Machpelah? | GotQuestions.org Why was a burial place so important in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Mamre: A Plain Near Hebron: Abraham Resides In Mamre: A Plain Near Hebron: Entertains Three Angels, and is Promised a Son Mamre: A Plain Near Hebron: Isaac Lives In Mamre: An Amorite and Confederate of Abraham Related Terms Burying-place (19 Occurrences) Resting-place (211 Occurrences) |