Topical Bible: Shechem: Also Called Sychar, a City of Refuge in Mount Ephraim

◄ Shechem: Also Called Sychar, a City of Refuge in Mount Ephraim ►

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Geographical and Historical Context:
Shechem, an ancient city of great significance in biblical history, is located in the hill country of Ephraim. It is strategically positioned between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, making it a central location in the land of Canaan. The city is first mentioned in Genesis 12:6, where Abram passed through the land to the site of Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time, the Canaanites were in the land.

Biblical Significance:
Shechem holds a prominent place in the narrative of the Israelites. It is the location where God first appeared to Abram in Canaan, promising the land to his descendants (Genesis 12:7). Jacob later purchased a plot of land near Shechem, which became a significant inheritance for his descendants (Genesis 33:18-19). This site is also where Jacob's well is located, a place of historical and spiritual importance.

In the time of Joshua, Shechem was designated as a city of refuge (Joshua 20:7). Cities of refuge were established to provide asylum for individuals who had committed unintentional manslaughter, allowing them to escape the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted.

Covenantal Events:
Shechem is notably the site of several covenantal events. Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel at Shechem to renew the covenant with the Lord, reminding them of their history and urging them to serve God faithfully (Joshua 24:1-25). This event underscores Shechem's role as a spiritual and communal center for the Israelites.

Shechem in the New Testament:
In the New Testament, Shechem is referred to as Sychar. It is here that Jesus, weary from His journey, encounters the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well (John 4:5-6). This interaction is significant as it breaks social norms and reveals Jesus' mission to bring salvation to all, including the Samaritans.

Cultural and Religious Impact:
Shechem's role as a city of refuge and a site of covenant renewal highlights its importance in the religious and cultural life of Israel. It served as a place of justice, mercy, and spiritual commitment. The city's association with key patriarchal figures and events further cements its status as a foundational location in biblical history.

Archaeological Insights:
Archaeological excavations at Shechem have uncovered significant findings, including ancient fortifications and religious structures, which align with its biblical portrayal as a major city. These discoveries provide tangible evidence of Shechem's historical and cultural prominence during the biblical era.

Conclusion:
Shechem, or Sychar, remains a testament to the enduring legacy of biblical history, serving as a focal point for divine encounters, covenantal commitments, and the unfolding narrative of God's people.

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Joshua 20:7
And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.
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Joshua 21:21
For they gave them Shechem with her suburbs in mount Ephraim, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Gezer with her suburbs,
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Judges 21:19
Then they said, Behold, there is a feast of the LORD in Shiloh yearly in a place which is on the north side of Bethel, on the east side of the highway that goes up from Bethel to Shechem, and on the south of Lebonah.
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Library

Six Cities
... 14] Jewish prophets, as they spake of Him in their predictions, called Him "The ... seek
also to add ... I will go and enter the gates of this city SHECHEM, and remember ...
/.../macduff/the cities of refuge or the name of jesus/ii six cities.htm

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... Also when she was in Mount Ephraim she made pilgrimages to the ... [2858] Passing by
Shechem (not Sychar ... wrongly read [2859] ) or as it is now called Neapolis, she ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm

The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert
... was hailed here as king by the people of Shechem. ... time I cannot remember; afterwards
it was called Matarea, and ... her fingers to explain and spoke also of bread ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xvi the flight into egypt.htm