Sha-alab'bin, also referred to as Shaalbim in some translations, is a town mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is located within the territory allotted to the tribe of Dan, as described in the Book of Joshua. The name "Sha-alab'bin" is thought to mean "place of foxes" or "place of jackals," reflecting the Hebrew root word for fox or jackal, "sha'al."

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 19:40-42 : "The seventh lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Dan. The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir-shemesh, Shaalabbin, Aijalon, Ithlah..." This passage lists Sha-alab'bin among the towns within the inheritance of the tribe of Dan. The allocation of this territory is part of the broader division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel.

2. Judges 1:34-35 : "The Amorites forced the Danites into the hill country and did not allow them to come down into the plain. And the Amorites were determined to dwell in Mount Heres, Aijalon, and Shaalbim; but when the power of the house of Joseph increased, they were put to forced labor." This passage highlights the initial struggles of the Danites to fully occupy their allotted territory, including Sha-alab'bin, due to the presence of the Amorites. It underscores the challenges faced by the Israelites in securing their inheritance.

3. 1 Kings 4:9 : "Ben-deker in Makaz, Shaalbim, Beth-shemesh, and Elon-beth-hanan." In this context, Sha-alab'bin is mentioned as part of the administrative districts established by King Solomon. It was under the jurisdiction of one of Solomon's twelve district governors, indicating its continued significance during the united monarchy.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Sha-alab'bin's location is traditionally identified with the modern site of Selbit, situated northwest of Jerusalem. Its proximity to other significant biblical sites, such as Aijalon and Beth-shemesh, places it within a region that was strategically important throughout Israel's history. The town's mention in various administrative and military contexts suggests it was a notable settlement during the periods of the Judges and the united monarchy.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

The narrative of Sha-alab'bin reflects the broader themes of struggle and divine providence in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The initial inability of the Danites to fully possess their inheritance due to Amorite resistance serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in fulfilling God's promises. However, the eventual subjugation of the Amorites by the house of Joseph illustrates the fulfillment of divine promises through perseverance and faith.

Sha-alab'bin's inclusion in the administrative structure of Solomon's kingdom further emphasizes the town's integration into the broader narrative of Israel's development as a nation under God's covenant. Its mention in the context of Solomon's reign highlights the period of peace and prosperity that characterized his rule, as well as the organizational efforts to maintain order and justice throughout the land.Sha-alab'bin (1 Occurrence)

Joshua 19:42
and Shaalabbin, and Aijalon, and Ithlah;
(See RSV)

Sha-alab'bin (1 Occurrence)
Sha-alab'bin. Shaalabbin, Sha-alab'bin. Shaalbim . Multi-Version Concordance
Sha-alab'bin (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:42 and Shaalabbin ...
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Shaalbim (2 Occurrences)

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Shaalabbin (1 Occurrence)

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