Topical Bible: Sela: A City in the Country of: Edom

◄ Sela: A City in the Country of: Edom ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Geographical and Historical Context:
Sela, often identified with the city of Petra, is a significant ancient city located in the region historically known as Edom. The name "Sela" translates to "rock" in Hebrew, aptly describing its geographical setting amidst the rugged, mountainous terrain. This city is strategically positioned in the southern part of modern-day Jordan, near the border with Israel. Its location provided natural fortifications, making it a stronghold and a center of trade and commerce in the ancient world.

Biblical References:
Sela is mentioned in several passages of the Bible, highlighting its importance and the role it played in the history of Edom and the surrounding regions. In 2 Kings 14:7 , we read about King Amaziah of Judah's conquest of Sela: "Amaziah struck down ten thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt, and he took Sela by war and called it Joktheel, as it is called to this day." This passage underscores the military significance of Sela and its capture as a notable achievement for the kingdom of Judah.

In Isaiah 16:1 , the city is mentioned in a prophecy concerning Moab: "Send the tribute lambs to the ruler of the land, from Sela in the desert to the mount of the Daughter of Zion." This reference indicates Sela's role in regional politics and its connection to the broader geopolitical landscape of the time.

Cultural and Economic Significance:
Sela's location along major trade routes contributed to its prosperity and cultural exchange. The city served as a hub for the trade of goods such as spices, textiles, and precious metals, linking the Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean world. The Edomites, who inhabited the region, were known for their skills in mining and metallurgy, further enhancing Sela's economic importance.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact identification of Sela with Petra is debated, archaeological findings in Petra provide insights into the lifestyle and architectural achievements of the inhabitants. The Nabataeans, who later occupied the region, carved impressive structures into the rose-red cliffs, showcasing advanced engineering and artistic skills. These remnants offer a glimpse into the city's grandeur and its role as a cultural crossroads.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, Sela's mention in the Bible serves as a testament to the fulfillment of divine prophecy and the unfolding of God's plan in history. The city's capture by Amaziah and its role in prophetic literature reflect the dynamic interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency. Sela's account is a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the enduring significance of God's purposes.

Conclusion:
Sela, as a city in Edom, holds a multifaceted place in biblical history, serving as a military stronghold, a center of trade, and a subject of prophecy. Its legacy, preserved in the biblical narrative and archaeological record, continues to captivate scholars and believers alike, offering insights into the ancient world and the unfolding of God's redemptive history.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 14:7
He slew of Edom in the valley of salt ten thousand, and took Selah by war, and called the name of it Joktheel to this day.
Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 16:1
Send you the lamb to the ruler of the land from Sela to the wilderness, to the mount of the daughter of Zion.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... Sela was rebuilt, and received the name of Joktheel from ... he was master in his own
city of Jerusalem ... The division of the country into provinces, a consequence ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm