Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Ramath-gilead, also known as Ramoth-gilead, is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament. It is located in the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River, and plays a crucial role in the history of Israel, particularly during the period of the divided monarchy. The name "Ramath-gilead" means "Heights of Gilead," reflecting its elevated position in the hilly terrain of Gilead. Biblical References and Historical Context: Ramath-gilead is first mentioned in the context of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua. It was designated as one of the cities of refuge, as stated in Joshua 20:8 : "Beyond the Jordan east of Jericho, they designated 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 gained prominence during the reigns of the kings of Israel and Judah. It was a strategically important location due to its position on the border between Israel and the Aramean kingdom of Syria. This made it a frequent site of conflict, particularly during the reigns of King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Ahab and Jehoshaphat's Campaign: One of the most notable events involving Ramath-gilead is the joint military campaign by King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah against the Arameans. Ahab sought to reclaim the city from Syrian control. In 1 Kings 22:3 , Ahab says to his officials, "Do you not know that Ramoth-gilead belongs to us, and yet we are doing nothing to retake it from the hand of the king of Aram?" Despite the warnings of the prophet Micaiah, who foretold disaster, Ahab proceeded with the campaign. The battle resulted in Ahab's death, as recorded in 1 Kings 22:34-35 : "But someone drew his bow at random and struck the king of Israel between the breastplate and the scale armor. So the king said to the driver of his chariot, 'Turn around and take me out of the battle, for I am badly wounded.' The battle raged all day long, and the king was propped up in his chariot facing the Arameans. But in the evening he died, and the blood from his wound ran onto the floor of the chariot." Later Conflicts and Significance: Ramath-gilead continued to be a focal point of conflict in subsequent years. In 2 Kings 8:28-29 , King Ahaziah of Judah joined King Joram of Israel in another attempt to reclaim the city from the Arameans, which resulted in Joram being wounded. The city's strategic importance is underscored by its repeated mention in the context of military campaigns and its role as a city of refuge. Its location made it a key defensive and administrative center in the region of Gilead. Archaeological and Geographical Insights: While the exact location of Ramath-gilead is debated, it is generally identified with Tell er-Rumeith, a site that has yielded archaeological evidence of ancient occupation. The geography of the area, characterized by its rugged hills and strategic vantage points, aligns with the biblical descriptions of the city's significance. Theological Implications: Ramath-gilead serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of divine sovereignty, prophetic truth, and the consequences of disobedience. The narratives involving the city highlight the importance of heeding God's word through His prophets and the futility of human plans that oppose divine will. The city's role as a city of refuge also underscores the provision of mercy and justice within the Mosaic Law. Conclusion: Ramath-gilead remains a testament to the complex history of Israel and its neighbors, illustrating the interplay of faith, politics, and warfare in the biblical narrative. Its repeated mention in Scripture underscores its enduring significance in the history of God's people. Concordance Ramath-gilead (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 18:11 Thesaurus Ramath-gilead (1 Occurrence)Ramath-gilead. Ramathem, Ramath-gilead. Ramathite . Multi-Version Concordance Ramath-gilead (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles ... /r/ramath-gilead.htm - 6k Ramathem Ramathite (1 Occurrence) Push (23 Occurrences) Prophesying (58 Occurrences) Consumed (213 Occurrences) Resources What is the importance of Mizpah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the land of Gilead in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the balm of Gilead? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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