Topical Encyclopedia Rimmon is a notable location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal allotments of the Israelites. It is identified as a rock or a stronghold situated in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. The significance of Rimmon is primarily derived from its role as a place of refuge during a tumultuous period in Israel's history.Biblical References: The most prominent mention of Rimmon occurs in the Book of Judges. Following the grievous incident involving the Levite's concubine and the subsequent civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes, the surviving Benjamites sought refuge at the rock of Rimmon. Judges 20:47 states, "But six hundred men turned and fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed four months." This passage highlights Rimmon as a place of sanctuary and survival for the remnant of the Benjamite warriors. In the subsequent chapter, Judges 21:13 recounts, "Then the whole congregation sent a message of peace to the Benjamites who were at the rock of Rimmon." This indicates that Rimmon served not only as a physical refuge but also as a focal point for reconciliation and restoration within the nation of Israel. Geographical and Historical Context: Rimmon is traditionally identified with a rocky outcrop or a fortified location, which would have provided a strategic advantage and natural defense for those seeking refuge. The exact geographical location of Rimmon is not definitively known today, but it is generally associated with the rugged terrain characteristic of the Benjaminite territory, which lies to the north of Jerusalem. The historical context of Rimmon is deeply intertwined with the narrative of the tribe of Benjamin during the period of the Judges. This era was marked by a cycle of apostasy, oppression, and deliverance, reflecting the broader spiritual and moral challenges faced by the Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, Rimmon serves as a symbol of God's providence and mercy. Despite the severe judgment that fell upon the tribe of Benjamin due to their sin, the preservation of a remnant at Rimmon underscores the theme of redemption and the possibility of restoration. It illustrates the biblical principle that even in the midst of judgment, God provides a means of escape and an opportunity for repentance and renewal. Furthermore, the narrative surrounding Rimmon highlights the importance of unity and reconciliation among God's people. The eventual peace extended to the Benjamites at Rimmon reflects the broader biblical mandate for forgiveness and the restoration of broken relationships within the covenant community. In summary, Rimmon stands as a testament to the enduring themes of refuge, redemption, and reconciliation within the biblical narrative, offering insights into the character of God and His dealings with His people. Nave's Topical Index Judges 20:45,47And they turned and fled toward the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon: and they gleaned of them in the highways five thousand men; and pursued hard after them to Gidom, and slew two thousand men of them. Nave's Topical Index Judges 21:13 Library The Israelites Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Resources Who was Naaman in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were Rechab and Baanah? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of gleaning in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Rimmon: A City of the Tribe of Zebulun Rimmon: A City of the Tribe of Zebulun: Called Remmon-Methoar Rimmon: A City South of Jerusalem Rimmon: A City South of Jerusalem: Allotted to the Tribe of Judah Rimmon: A City South of Jerusalem: Also Called En-Rimmon Rimmon: A City South of Jerusalem: Called Remmon Rimmon: A City South of Jerusalem: Later Alloted to the Tribe of Simeon Rimmon: A Rock in the Territory of the Tribe of Benjamin Rimmon: Father of the Murderers of Ish-Bosheth Related Terms |
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