Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Ra'moth-gil'ead, often referred to simply as Ramoth in Gilead, is a significant city in the biblical narrative, located in the territory of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. It holds historical, military, and theological importance in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of Israel's monarchy and prophetic history. Biblical References: Ra'moth-gil'ead is mentioned in several key passages throughout the Old Testament. It is first noted as a city of refuge in Deuteronomy 4:43, where it is designated as a safe haven for those who have committed manslaughter unintentionally: "Bezer in the wilderness on the plateau, from the tribe of Reuben; Ramoth in Gilead, from the tribe of Gad; and Golan in Bashan, from the tribe of Manasseh." The city gains prominence during the reigns of the kings of Israel and Judah. In 1 Kings 22, King Ahab of Israel seeks to reclaim Ra'moth-gil'ead from the Arameans. He enlists the help of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to join him in battle. Despite the counsel of the prophet Micaiah, who predicts disaster, Ahab proceeds and ultimately meets his demise in the battle: "The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, 'Will you go with me to fight against Ramoth-gilead?' Jehoshaphat replied to the king of Israel, 'I am as you are, my people as your people, my horses as your horses.'" (1 Kings 22:4). The city is again a focal point in 2 Kings 9, where Jehu is anointed king of Israel by a prophet sent by Elisha. This event marks the beginning of Jehu's violent purge of the house of Ahab: "The prophet poured the oil on Jehu’s head and declared, 'This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I anoint you king over the LORD’s people Israel.'" (2 Kings 9:6). Historical and Theological Significance: Ra'moth-gil'ead's role as a city of refuge underscores the biblical principle of justice tempered with mercy, providing protection for those who have caused accidental harm. Its strategic location made it a contested site, reflecting the ongoing conflict between Israel and its neighbors, particularly the Arameans. The narratives involving Ra'moth-gil'ead highlight the themes of divine sovereignty and prophetic authority. The accounts of Ahab and Jehu illustrate the consequences of obedience and disobedience to God's word delivered through His prophets. Ahab's disregard for Micaiah's prophecy results in his death, while Jehu's anointing and subsequent actions fulfill divine judgment against Ahab's house. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Ra'moth-gil'ead remains uncertain, it is generally associated with the region of modern-day Jordan. Archaeological efforts have sought to identify its site, contributing to a broader understanding of the historical and cultural context of the biblical narrative. Conclusion: Ra'moth-gil'ead serves as a testament to the complex interplay of faith, politics, and prophecy in the history of Israel. Its accounts continue to offer insights into the nature of divine justice and the importance of heeding God's word. Concordance Ra'moth-gil'ead (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 4:13 Thesaurus Ra'moth-gil'ead (1 Occurrence)Ra'moth-gil'ead. Ramoth-gilead, Ra'moth-gil'ead. Ramp . Multi-Version Concordance Ra'moth-gil'ead (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:13 Ben ... /r/ra'moth-gil'ead.htm - 6k Ramp (9 Occurrences) Ramoth-gilead (20 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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