Pasdammim, also referred to as Ephes Dammim in some biblical texts, is a location of significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. It is primarily known as the site of a notable battle between the Israelites and the Philistines, as recorded in the Old Testament.

Biblical References:

Pasdammim is mentioned in 1 Samuel 17:1 and 1 Chronicles 11:13. In 1 Samuel 17:1, it is described as the place where the Philistines gathered their forces for war against Israel, leading to the famous encounter between David and Goliath. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Now the Philistines gathered their forces for war and assembled at Socoh in Judah. They pitched camp at Ephes-dammim, between Socoh and Azekah."

In 1 Chronicles 11:13, Pasdammim is noted as the site where Eleazar, one of David's mighty warriors, stood his ground against the Philistines. The BSB records: "He was with David at Pasdammim when the Philistines gathered there for battle. At a plot of ground full of barley, the troops fled from the Philistines."

Geographical Context:

Pasdammim is located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah, strategically positioned between Socoh and Azekah. This area was a frequent battleground due to its location on the border between Israelite and Philistine territories. The Shephelah served as a buffer zone, often contested by both nations.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The events at Pasdammim highlight the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, a recurring theme in the historical books of the Old Testament. The battle at Pasdammim, particularly the encounter between David and Goliath, is emblematic of God's deliverance and the triumph of faith over seemingly insurmountable odds. David's victory over Goliath at this location is a pivotal moment in biblical history, demonstrating God's power working through His chosen servant.

The account of Eleazar's bravery at Pasdammim, as recorded in 1 Chronicles, underscores the valor and faithfulness of David's mighty men. These narratives serve to illustrate the importance of courage, faith, and reliance on God in the face of adversity.

Etymology:

The name Pasdammim is thought to mean "boundary of blood" or "limit of bloodshed," reflecting its role as a site of conflict and warfare. This etymology underscores the violent and contested nature of the region during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy in Israel.

Archaeological Insights:

While the exact location of Pasdammim has not been definitively identified, archaeological surveys in the Shephelah region have provided insights into the historical context of the area. Excavations at nearby sites such as Socoh and Azekah have revealed fortifications and artifacts that align with the biblical descriptions of the region during the time of the United Monarchy.

Pasdammim remains a symbol of God's intervention and the faith-driven victories of His people, serving as a testament to the enduring themes of divine providence and human courage found throughout the biblical narrative.Pasdammim

(boundary of blood). [EPHES-DAMMIM]

The border of blood = Ephes-dammim (q.v.), between Shochoh and Azekah (1 Samuel 17:1; 1 Chronicles 11:13). PAS-DAMMIM

pas-dam'-im.

See EPHES-DAMMIM.

6450. Pas Dammim -- "palm of blood," a place in Judah
... 6449, 6450. Pas Dammim. 6451 . "palm of blood," a place in Judah. Transliteration:
Pas Dammim Phonetic Spelling: (pas dam-meem') Short Definition: Pasdammim ...
/hebrew/6450.htm - 6kPasdammim (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. PAS-DAMMIM. pas-dam'-im. See EPHES-DAMMIM.
Multi-Version Concordance Pasdammim (1 Occurrence). 1 ...
/p/pasdammim.htm - 7k

Pas-dammim (2 Occurrences)
Pas-dammim. Pasdammim, Pas-dammim. Pas-dam'mim . Easton's Bible Dictionary ...
(See JPS BBE DBY WBS YLT). Pasdammim, Pas-dammim. Pas-dam'mim . Reference Bible
/p/pas-dammim.htm - 7k

Dammim (3 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were
gathered together to battle, where there was a plot of ground full of barley ...
/d/dammim.htm - 7k

Pas (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were
gathered together to battle, where there was a plot of ground full of barley ...
/p/pas.htm - 7k

Paschal (1 Occurrence)

/p/paschal.htm - 6k

Parcel (10 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were
gathered together to battle, where was a parcel of ground full of barley; and ...
/p/parcel.htm - 11k

Plot (53 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were
gathered together to battle, where there was a plot of ground full of barley ...
/p/plot.htm - 22k

Barley (35 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were
gathered together to battle, where there was a plot of ground full of barley ...
/b/barley.htm - 23k

Troops (92 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:13 He was with David at Pasdammim, and there the Philistines were
gathered together to battle, where there was a plot of ground full of barley ...
/t/troops.htm - 34k

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