Tekoah, also spelled Tekoa, is a significant city located in the hill country of Judah, approximately 10 miles south of Jerusalem. It is mentioned several times in the Old Testament and holds historical and theological importance within the biblical narrative.

Biblical References and Historical Context

Tekoah is first mentioned in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 2:24, where it is associated with the descendants of Hezron. The city is perhaps best known as the home of the prophet Amos, who introduces himself as a shepherd from Tekoah in Amos 1:1: "The words of Amos, who was among the shepherds of Tekoa—what he saw concerning Israel two years before the earthquake, in the days of Uzziah king of Judah and Jeroboam son of Jehoash king of Israel."

The city is also noted for its wise inhabitants. In 2 Samuel 14, Joab, the commander of King David's army, employs a wise woman from Tekoah to persuade David to reconcile with his estranged son Absalom. This account highlights the reputation of Tekoah's residents for wisdom and eloquence.

Military and Strategic Importance

Tekoah's location in the Judean hills made it a site of strategic military importance. In 2 Chronicles 20:20, King Jehoshaphat of Judah gathers his forces at Tekoah before going out to face the Moabites and Ammonites. The passage states: "Early in the morning they got up and left for the Wilderness of Tekoa. As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood up and said, 'Listen to me, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Believe in the LORD your God, and you will be upheld; believe in His prophets, and you will succeed.'"

Post-Exilic Period

After the Babylonian exile, Tekoah was one of the cities resettled by the returning exiles. Nehemiah 3:5 records the participation of the Tekoites in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem: "Next to them, the Tekoites made repairs, but their nobles did not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors." This verse indicates both the involvement of the Tekoites in the restoration efforts and a note of disapproval regarding the nobles' lack of participation.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Tekoah's association with the prophet Amos adds a layer of religious significance to the city. Amos's prophecies, which emphasize social justice and true worship, reflect the rural and pastoral background of Tekoah. The city's mention in various biblical narratives underscores its role as a center of wisdom and its contribution to the spiritual and moral discourse of ancient Israel.

Archaeological Insights

Modern archaeological efforts have identified the site of ancient Tekoah with the ruins at Khirbet Tuqu'. Excavations have revealed remnants of fortifications, dwellings, and agricultural installations, providing insight into the city's historical and economic life. These findings corroborate the biblical portrayal of Tekoah as a fortified city with a strong agricultural base.

In summary, Tekoah is a city of considerable historical, military, and religious significance in the biblical narrative. Its association with figures like Amos and its role in key events highlight its importance in the history of Judah and its enduring legacy in biblical tradition.2 Chronicles 11:6
He built even Bethlehem, and Etam, and Tekoa,
Nave's Topical Index

The Prophet Amos.
... i.1: "Who was among the herdmen of Tekoah." If there ... setting on fire and burning
of the city which is ... where the prophet passes over to the territory of actual ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet amos.htm

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