Pharathon is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the period of the Judges. It is noted as the burial place of Abdon, one of the lesser-known judges of Israel. The reference to Pharathon is found in the Book of Judges, which provides insight into the governance and leadership of Israel during a time when the nation was not yet united under a monarchy.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Pharathon is found in Judges 12:15: "Then Abdon son of Hillel the Pirathonite died and was buried at Pirathon in the land of Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites."

Historical and Geographical Context:

Pharathon, also referred to as Pirathon in some translations, is situated in the land of Ephraim, a central region in ancient Israel. The mention of the "hill country of the Amalekites" suggests that this area was once inhabited or influenced by the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as adversaries of Israel.

The location of Pharathon in the hill country indicates a strategic position, likely providing natural fortifications and a vantage point over the surrounding areas. This would have been significant during the time of the Judges, a period characterized by frequent conflicts and the need for defensible settlements.

Abdon the Judge:

Abdon, the son of Hillel, is the judge associated with Pharathon. His tenure as a judge is briefly mentioned in Judges 12:13-15. Abdon is described as having forty sons and thirty grandsons who rode on seventy donkeys, a sign of wealth and status in ancient Israel. His leadership is noted for bringing peace to Israel, although the details of his judgeship are not extensively documented in the biblical text.

Abdon's burial in Pharathon signifies the importance of this location as his familial and tribal home. It reflects the common practice of burying leaders in their ancestral lands, underscoring the connection between identity, heritage, and geography in ancient Israelite society.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

Pharathon, as the final resting place of a judge, holds cultural significance in the narrative of Israel's history. The judges were seen as divinely appointed leaders who delivered Israel from oppression and guided the people in times of crisis. Although Abdon's judgeship is not detailed with specific acts of deliverance, his inclusion in the biblical record highlights the continuity of leadership and the ongoing need for governance in Israel.

Theologically, the mention of Pharathon and its association with Abdon serves as a reminder of God's provision of leaders for His people, even in times of relative obscurity. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty in raising up individuals to fulfill His purposes, regardless of their prominence in the broader narrative.

Conclusion:

Pharathon, while only briefly mentioned in the Bible, provides a glimpse into the life and times of the judges of Israel. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who led Israel during a formative period in its history, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and leadership in accordance with God's will.PHARATHON

far'-a-thon (Pharathon): One of the strong cities of Judea fortified by Bacchides during the Maccabean war (1 Maccabees 9:50). Septuagint reads "Thamnatha-pharathon" as the name of one city. Josephus, however (Ant., XIII, i, 3), and Syriac supply the "and" between them. The name represents a Hebrew pir`athon. If it is to be taken strictly as in Judean territory, it cannot be identified with PIRATHON (which see) of Judges 12:15. In that case we should probably seek for it with Dr. G.A. Smith in some fortress covering the top of Wady Far`ah.

W. Ewing

Pharathon
...PHARATHON. far'-a-thon (Pharathon): One of the strong cities of Judea fortified
by Bacchides during the Maccabean war (1 Maccabees 9:50). ...
/p/pharathon.htm - 7k

Tappuah (8 Occurrences)
... It may be identical with Tephon, which, along with Timnath, Pharathon, and other
cities, Bacchides fortified "with high walls and gates and bars" (1 Maccabees 9 ...
/t/tappuah.htm - 11k

Phares (2 Occurrences)

/p/phares.htm - 7k

Pirathonite (5 Occurrences)
... It is just possible that the place may be identical with Pharathon, one of the
towns fortified by Bacchides (1 Maccabees 9:50). W. Ewing. ...
/p/pirathonite.htm - 9k

Pirathon (2 Occurrences)
... It is just possible that the place may be identical with Pharathon, one of the
towns fortified by Bacchides (1 Maccabees 9:50). W. Ewing. ...
/p/pirathon.htm - 8k

Pharaoh's (72 Occurrences)

/p/pharaoh's.htm - 31k

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