Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Sha-ara'im" is derived from the Hebrew word "שַׁעֲרַיִם" (Sha'arayim), which means "two gates" or "double gates." This name likely reflects the city's strategic location or its architectural features, possibly indicating a fortified city with two main entrances.

Biblical References:
Sha-ara'im is mentioned in the context of the tribal allotments and historical narratives of the Old Testament. It appears in the following passages:

1. Joshua 15:36 · Sha-ara'im is listed among the cities in the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. The verse states: "Shaaraim, Adithaim, and Gederah (or Gederothaim)—fourteen cities with their villages."

2. 1 Samuel 17:52 · The city is noted in the account of David's victory over Goliath. After David defeats the Philistine giant, the men of Israel and Judah pursue the Philistines to the gates of Ekron, and the wounded Philistines fall along the road to Sha-ara'im. The verse reads: "Then the men of Israel and Judah rose up, shouted, and pursued the Philistines as far as the entrance of the valley and to the gates of Ekron. The slain Philistines lay along the road to Shaaraim, even as far as Gath and Ekron."

Historical and Archaeological Context:
Sha-ara'im is believed to have been located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah, which served as a buffer zone between the hill country of Judah and the coastal plains occupied by the Philistines. This area was of significant strategic importance due to its fertile land and its role as a frontier between the Israelites and their Philistine adversaries.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Sha-ara'im may be identified with the site of Khirbet Qeiyafa, where excavations have uncovered a fortified city dating to the time of King David. The presence of two gates at this site aligns with the meaning of the name Sha-ara'im, supporting the identification. The discovery of pottery, inscriptions, and other artifacts at Khirbet Qeiyafa provides insight into the cultural and political landscape of the region during the early Iron Age.

Theological Significance:
Sha-ara'im's mention in the narrative of David and Goliath underscores the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, highlighting the role of faith and divine intervention in Israel's victories. The pursuit of the Philistines to Sha-ara'im symbolizes the triumph of God's chosen people over their enemies, a recurring theme in the biblical narrative.

The city's inclusion in the tribal allotments of Judah also reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as the land is apportioned among the tribes of Israel. Sha-ara'im serves as a testament to the historical and spiritual heritage of the people of Judah, emphasizing the importance of obedience and trust in God's provision and protection.Sha-ara'im (2 Occurrences)

1 Samuel 17:52
And the men of Israel and of Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the Philistines, until thou comest to Gai, and to the gates of Ekron. And the wounded of the Philistines fell down by the way to Shaaraim, even unto Gath, and unto Ekron.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 4:31
and at Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susim, and at Beth-biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities unto the reign of David.
(See RSV)

Sha-ara'im (2 Occurrences)
Sha-ara'im. Shaara'im, Sha-ara'im. Shaarim . Multi-Version Concordance
Sha-ara'im (2 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 17:52 And the men of ...
/s/sha-ara'im.htm - 7k

Shaara'im (1 Occurrence)
Shaara'im. Shaaraim, Shaara'im. Sha-ara'im . Multi-Version Concordance
Shaara'im (1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Shaaraim, Shaara'im. Sha-ara'im . Reference ...
/s/shaara'im.htm - 6k

Shaarim (1 Occurrence)

/s/shaarim.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus