Topical Bible: Zalmon: Also Called Salmon, Probably: A Hill in Samaria

◄ Zalmon: Also Called Salmon, Probably: A Hill in Samaria ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Also Called: Salmon

Probably: A Hill in Samaria

Biblical References:

1. Psalm 68:14 : "When the Almighty scattered the kings in the land, it was like snow falling on Zalmon."

2. Judges 9:48 : "So Abimelech and all his troops went up to Mount Zalmon. He took an ax in his hand and cut down a branch, which he lifted to his shoulder. He said to the men with him, 'Quick, do what you have seen me do!'"

Description and Significance:

Zalmon, also referred to as Salmon, is identified in the Bible as a geographical location, likely a hill or mountain situated in the region of Samaria. The name Zalmon is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "shady" or "dark," which may suggest a densely wooded area or a place with significant tree cover.

Historical Context:

In the context of Judges 9:48, Zalmon is mentioned during the narrative of Abimelech, the son of Gideon, who declared himself king after the death of his father. Abimelech's actions on Mount Zalmon are part of his campaign against the city of Shechem, where he sought to consolidate his power. The passage describes Abimelech's strategic use of the natural resources on Zalmon, as he instructs his men to follow his example in cutting down branches to use in their assault on the city.

Psalm 68:14 references Zalmon in a poetic context, likening the scattering of kings by the Almighty to snow falling on Zalmon. This imagery evokes a sense of divine intervention and the overwhelming power of God in the affairs of men. The mention of snow may also imply a transformation or covering, symbolizing purity or the obliteration of opposition.

Geographical Considerations:

While the exact location of Zalmon is not definitively known, it is traditionally associated with the region of Samaria, north of Jerusalem. The identification of Zalmon as a hill or mountain aligns with the topographical features of the area, which includes various elevations and wooded regions.

Theological Implications:

Zalmon serves as a backdrop for demonstrating God's sovereignty and the futility of human ambition apart from divine will. In the account of Abimelech, the events on Zalmon highlight the destructive consequences of self-exaltation and the ultimate justice of God. The poetic reference in Psalms underscores the theme of God's majestic power and His ability to bring about His purposes in the world.

Cultural and Literary Aspects:

The use of Zalmon in biblical literature reflects the common practice of employing geographical locations to convey spiritual truths and historical realities. The imagery associated with Zalmon, particularly in the Psalms, enriches the text with vivid and memorable descriptions that resonate with the audience's understanding of the natural world.

In summary, Zalmon, or Salmon, is a significant yet enigmatic location within the biblical narrative, serving as a testament to God's intervention in history and the moral lessons derived from the actions of individuals like Abimelech. Its mention in scripture invites reflection on the themes of divine power, justice, and the natural order.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 9:48
And Abimelech got him up to mount Zalmon, he and all the people that were with him; and Abimelech took an ax in his hand, and cut down a bough from the trees, and took it, and laid it on his shoulder, and said to the people that were with him, What you have seen me do, make haste, and do as I have done.
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