Topical Encyclopedia Sal'ecah, also spelled Salcah, is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. It is identified as a city on the eastern frontier of Bashan, a region known for its fertile lands and strongholds. Sal'ecah is significant in biblical history as part of the territory allotted to the half-tribe of Manasseh, east of the Jordan River.Biblical References: 1. Deuteronomy 3:10 : "We captured all the cities on the plateau and all Gilead and all Bashan as far as Salecah and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan." This verse highlights Sal'ecah as one of the cities conquered by the Israelites under Moses' leadership. It was part of the kingdom of Og, the Amorite king of Bashan, who was defeated by the Israelites. 2. Joshua 12:5 : "He ruled over Mount Hermon, Salecah, all Bashan up to the border of the Geshurites and the Maacathites, and half of Gilead as far as the border of Sihon king of Heshbon." This passage lists Sal'ecah as part of the dominion of Og, emphasizing its strategic location in the northern territories conquered by the Israelites. 3. Joshua 13:11 : "Gilead, and the region of the Geshurites and Maacathites, all Mount Hermon, and all Bashan as far as Salecah." Here, Sal'ecah is again mentioned as a boundary marker in the description of the land allocated to the half-tribe of Manasseh. Historical and Geographical Context: Sal'ecah was situated on the eastern edge of Bashan, a region renowned for its rich pastures and strong cities. The city served as a frontier fortress, marking the extent of Israelite territory in the Transjordan area. Its location made it a significant military and trade center, controlling routes between the desert and the fertile lands of Bashan. The city is often associated with the modern-day site of Salkhad in southern Syria, which retains remnants of ancient fortifications and structures. This identification is supported by its geographical alignment with biblical descriptions and its historical significance as a fortified city. Cultural and Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, Sal'ecah represents the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites to give them the land of the Amorites. The conquest of Sal'ecah and other cities in Bashan demonstrated God's power and faithfulness in delivering the land to His people. It also served as a testament to the Israelites' obedience and military prowess under divine guidance. The allocation of Sal'ecah to the half-tribe of Manasseh underscores the importance of the Transjordan region in Israel's settlement and expansion. It highlights the tribe's role in securing and maintaining the eastern borders of the Promised Land. Sal'ecah's mention in the Bible, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement, illustrating the historical and theological themes of divine promise, fulfillment, and the establishment of Israelite identity in the land. Concordance Sal'ecah (4 Occurrences)Deuteronomy 3:10 Joshua 12:5 Joshua 13:11 1 Chronicles 5:11 Thesaurus Sal'ecah (4 Occurrences)Sal'ecah. Salecah, Sal'ecah. Salem . Multi-Version Concordance Sal'ecah (4 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 3:10 all the cities of the ... /s/sal'ecah.htm - 7k Salecah (4 Occurrences) Salem (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |