Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Shahazim" is derived from the Hebrew roots, which may suggest meanings related to "heights" or "prominent places." The exact etymology is not definitively established, but it is often associated with geographical features. Biblical References: Shahazim is mentioned in the context of the territorial boundaries of the tribes of Israel. Specifically, it appears in the delineation of the land allotted to the tribe of Naphtali. The reference to Shahazim is found in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. · Joshua 19:35-36 : "The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Kinnereth, Adamah, Ramah, Hazor, Kedesh, Edrei, En-hazor, Iron, Migdal-el, Horem, Beth-anath, and Beth-shemesh. There were nineteen cities, along with their villages." In this passage, Shahazim is not explicitly mentioned by name, but it is understood to be part of the region described. The cities listed are part of the inheritance of Naphtali, and Shahazim is traditionally associated with this area. Geographical Context: Shahazim is believed to be located in the northern part of ancient Israel, within the territory assigned to the tribe of Naphtali. This region is characterized by its varied topography, including hills and valleys, which aligns with the possible meaning of the name as "heights." Historical and Archaeological Insights: While Shahazim itself is not prominently featured in archaeological records, the broader region of Naphtali has been the subject of various excavations. These have provided insights into the Iron Age settlements and the lifestyle of the inhabitants during the biblical period. The fortified cities mentioned alongside Shahazim in the Book of Joshua suggest a region of strategic importance, likely due to its location and natural defenses. Theological Significance: The mention of Shahazim, though brief, contributes to the understanding of the fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites regarding the land of Canaan. The detailed listing of cities and regions in the Book of Joshua underscores the historical reality of the tribal inheritances and the faithfulness of God in delivering the land to His people. Cultural and Religious Context: In the broader cultural and religious context of ancient Israel, the allocation of land was not merely a matter of geography but also of divine providence and covenantal promise. Each tribe's inheritance was seen as a tangible expression of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and Shahazim, as part of Naphtali's territory, played a role in this divine narrative. Modern Relevance: For contemporary readers and scholars, Shahazim serves as a reminder of the historical roots of biblical narratives and the enduring significance of the land in the spiritual heritage of the Jewish and Christian faiths. The study of such locations enhances the understanding of biblical history and the unfolding of God's plan as recorded in Scripture. Concordance Shahazim (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:22 Thesaurus Shahazim (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Shahazim (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:22 And the coast reacheth to Tabor, and Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh; and ... /s/shahazim.htm - 6k Beth-she'mesh (20 Occurrences) Shahazu'mah (1 Occurrence) Shahazimah (1 Occurrence) Shahara'im (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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