Topical Encyclopedia Shaarim is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal allotments and historical narratives of ancient Israel. The name "Shaarim" is derived from the Hebrew word "שְׁעָרִים," which means "gates" or "double gates," suggesting a place of entry or passage.Biblical References: 1. 1 Samuel 17:52 : Shaarim is mentioned in the account of David's victory over Goliath. After David defeats the Philistine giant, the men of Israel and Judah rise up and pursue the Philistines. The text states, "Then the men of Israel and Judah rallied, raised the battle cry, and pursued the Philistines to the entrance of the valley and to the gates of Ekron. The bodies of the Philistines were strewn along the Shaaraim road to Gath and Ekron." This passage situates Shaarim in the context of the route taken by the fleeing Philistines, indicating its geographical significance as a landmark in the pursuit. 2. Joshua 15:36 : Shaarim is listed among the towns in the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. The verse reads, "Shaaraim, Adithaim, and Gederah (or Gederothaim)—fourteen towns, along with their villages." This inclusion in the tribal allotment underscores its role as a recognized settlement within the territory of Judah. Geographical and Historical Context: Shaarim's exact location remains a subject of scholarly debate, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah. This area served as a buffer zone between the hill country of Judah and the coastal plains occupied by the Philistines. The strategic position of Shaarim would have made it an important site for controlling access between these regions. The mention of Shaarim in the context of the battle narrative in 1 Samuel highlights its role as a significant point along the route from the Valley of Elah, where David confronted Goliath, to the Philistine cities of Gath and Ekron. This suggests that Shaarim may have been a fortified location or a notable landmark that marked the boundary or entry point into Philistine territory. Cultural and Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Shaarim in the biblical narrative serves to emphasize the completeness of Israel's victory over the Philistines. The pursuit to Shaarim and beyond symbolizes the triumph of God's chosen people over their enemies, facilitated by divine intervention through David's faith and courage. In the broader context of the tribal allotments, Shaarim's inclusion in the territory of Judah reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The delineation of tribal boundaries and settlements underscores the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, as well as the divine orchestration of the land's distribution among the tribes. Overall, Shaarim stands as a testament to the historical and spiritual journey of the Israelites, marking both a physical location and a narrative milestone in the unfolding account of God's people in the Old Testament. Library Tsippor Thesaurus Shaarim (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Shaarim (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:31 and in Beth-Marcaboth, and in Hazar-Susim, and in Beth-Birei, and ... /s/shaarim.htm - 6k Shaashgaz (1 Occurrence) Sha-ara'im (2 Occurrences) Reigning (57 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Shaarim (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 4:31 Subtopics Related Terms |
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