Topical Encyclopedia Moab is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known as the son of Lot, Abraham's nephew. His account is foundational to understanding the origins of the Moabite people, who play a recurring role in the history of Israel.Biblical Account The account of Moab's birth is found in Genesis 19:30-38. After the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Lot and his two daughters took refuge in a cave in the mountains. Fearing the extinction of their family line, Lot's daughters devised a plan to preserve their lineage by getting their father drunk and lying with him. The elder daughter bore a son named Moab, who became the progenitor of the Moabites. The Berean Standard Bible states: "The older daughter had a son, and she named him Moab. He is the father of the Moabites of today" (Genesis 19:37). The Moabites The Moabites settled in the region east of the Dead Sea, an area known for its fertile land. Throughout the Old Testament, the Moabites are frequently mentioned in relation to the Israelites. Despite their kinship through Lot, the Moabites often found themselves in conflict with Israel. Relations with Israel The relationship between Israel and Moab was complex, marked by both hostility and cooperation. During the Exodus, the Moabites, under King Balak, sought to curse the Israelites through the prophet Balaam (Numbers 22-24). However, God intervened, and Balaam ended up blessing Israel instead. In the period of the Judges, the Moabites oppressed Israel for eighteen years until they were defeated by Ehud, a judge of Israel (Judges 3:12-30). The Moabites also appear in the account of Ruth, a Moabite woman who became the great-grandmother of King David, highlighting a moment of peace and integration between the two peoples (Ruth 1-4). Prophetic References The prophets frequently spoke against Moab, condemning their pride and idolatry. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel all prophesied judgment against Moab, foretelling its downfall (Isaiah 15-16, Jeremiah 48, Ezekiel 25:8-11). These prophecies underscore the moral and spiritual failings of Moab, as well as God's sovereignty over all nations. Cultural and Religious Practices The Moabites were known for their worship of Chemosh, a deity to whom they offered sacrifices, including human sacrifices in times of dire need (2 Kings 3:27). This idolatrous practice was a significant point of contention between Moab and Israel, whose worship was centered on Yahweh. Legacy Moab's legacy is twofold: as the ancestor of a nation often at odds with Israel, and as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships and divine providence. The Moabites' interactions with Israel serve as a backdrop for understanding God's unfolding plan for His people, illustrating themes of judgment, redemption, and the intricate tapestry of biblical history. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 19:37And the first born bore a son, and called his name Moab: the same is the father of the Moabites to this day. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 4124. Moab -- a son of Lot,also his desc. and the territory where ...... form of the prepositional prefix m- and 'ab; from (her (the mother's)) father; Moab, an incestuous son of Lot; also his territory and descendants -- Moab. ... /hebrew/4124.htm - 6k Library At the Same Time God Spoke to Abraham, and Promised that his Seed ... How God Overthrew the Nation of the Sodomites, Out of his Wrath ... Moab is My Washpot The Devotion of Ruth The Nations of the South-East The Voice in the Wilderness Chapter xix Balak's Inquiries Relative to the Service of God, and Balaam's ... Second Sunday after Trinity Exhortation to Brotherly Love. The Perpetual virginity of Blessed Mary. Resources What is the significance of Moab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhen did Moab and Ammon eventually worship the Lord (Zephaniah 2:11)? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Moabites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |