Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Seveneh, also known as Syene, is an ancient city located in the southern part of Egypt, near the first cataract of the Nile River. It is identified with the modern city of Aswan. Seveneh holds historical and biblical significance, particularly in the context of biblical prophecy and geography. Biblical References: Seveneh is mentioned in the Bible in the book of Ezekiel. The prophet Ezekiel refers to it in the context of God's judgment against Egypt. In Ezekiel 29:10 , the Lord declares, "therefore I am against you and against your streams, and I will make the land of Egypt a ruin and a desolate waste, from Migdol to Seveneh, as far as the border of Cush." This passage highlights Seveneh as a geographical marker, indicating the extent of the prophesied desolation. Historical Context: In ancient times, Seveneh was a significant city due to its strategic location at the border of Egypt and Nubia (modern-day Sudan). It served as a military outpost and a center for trade and commerce. The city was known for its granite quarries, which supplied stone for many of Egypt's monuments and temples. Cultural and Religious Significance: Seveneh was not only a military and economic hub but also a place of cultural and religious importance. The city was home to various temples and religious sites dedicated to Egyptian deities. Its proximity to the island of Elephantine, which housed a Jewish community during the Persian period, adds to its religious significance. This community maintained a temple dedicated to Yahweh, reflecting the diverse religious landscape of the region. Archaeological Insights: Archaeological excavations in and around Aswan have uncovered numerous artifacts and structures that provide insight into the life and culture of ancient Seveneh. These include remnants of temples, inscriptions, and the famous Aswan quarries. The Elephantine papyri, a collection of ancient Jewish manuscripts, were discovered on the nearby island, offering valuable information about the Jewish community and their interactions with the local population. Prophetic Implications: The mention of Seveneh in Ezekiel's prophecy underscores the city's role as a boundary marker in God's judgment against Egypt. The prophecy serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to execute judgment according to His divine plan. The desolation from "Migdol to Seveneh" symbolizes the comprehensive nature of the prophesied devastation. Geographical Importance: Seveneh's location at the first cataract of the Nile made it a natural boundary between Egypt and the lands to the south. This strategic position allowed it to control trade routes and serve as a gateway for expeditions into Africa. The city's geographical significance is further emphasized by its mention in biblical texts as a point of reference for the extent of Egypt's territory. Conclusion: While Seveneh is not frequently mentioned in the Bible, its inclusion in Ezekiel's prophecy highlights its importance as a geographical and cultural landmark in the ancient world. The city's historical and archaeological legacy continues to provide valuable insights into the biblical narrative and the broader context of the ancient Near East. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SEVENEHse-ven'-e, se-ve'-ne (ceweneh): For the King James Version "the tower of Syene," in Ezekiel 29:10; Ezekiel 30:6, the Revised Version (British and American) reads, "the tower of Seveneh," with a marginal note, "or, from Migdol to Syene." Seveneh is the town at the First Cataract in Egypt, now known as Assuan. Fresh interest has recently been given to it by the Elephantine discoveries bearing on the ancient Jewish colony and temple of Yahweh in that place in the 5th century B.C. Strong's Hebrew 5482a. Seveneh -- a city on the S. border of EgyptSeveneh or Sevenah or Seven. 5482, 5482a. Seveneh or Sevenah or Seven. 5482b . a city on the S. border of Egypt. Transliteration ... /hebrew/5482a.htm - 5k Thesaurus Seveneh (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SEVENEH. se-ven'-e, se-ve ... 4, etc. Multi-Version Concordance Seveneh (2 Occurrences). Ezekiel 29:10 ... /s/seveneh.htm - 7k Aswan (3 Occurrences) Sevenfold (10 Occurrences) Threshing (57 Occurrences) Syene (4 Occurrences) Seven-day (2 Occurrences) Uphold (30 Occurrences) Tower (74 Occurrences) Rivers (81 Occurrences) Proud (96 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Seveneh (2 Occurrences)Ezekiel 29:10 Ezekiel 30:6 Subtopics Related Terms |