Introduction:
Shihor, often referred to as "the Shihor of Egypt," is a term found in the Old Testament, denoting a body of water associated with the boundary of Egypt. The name "Shihor" is thought to mean "black" or "turbid," likely referring to the dark, silt-laden waters of the Nile or its easternmost branch. This entry explores the biblical references to Shihor, its geographical significance, and its theological implications.

Biblical References:
Shihor is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament, each providing insight into its geographical and symbolic importance.

1. Joshua 13:3 : "from the Shihor east of Egypt to the border of Ekron on the north (all of it regarded as Canaanite territory—the five rulers of the Philistines in Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron), and the Avvites."
· In this passage, Shihor is described as a boundary marker for the land of Canaan, indicating the extent of the territory that the Israelites were to conquer. It serves as a geographical demarcation between Egypt and the land promised to the Israelites.

2. 1 Chronicles 13:5 : "So David assembled all the Israelites, from the Shihor in Egypt to Lebo-hamath, to bring the ark of God from Kiriath-jearim."
· Here, Shihor is mentioned as part of the expansive territory from which King David gathered the Israelites. This reference underscores the breadth of David's influence and the unity of the Israelite tribes under his leadership.

3. Isaiah 23:3 : "On the great waters came the grain of the Shihor; the harvest of the Nile was the revenue of Tyre, and she became the marketplace of the nations."
· This verse highlights the economic significance of Shihor, linking it to the grain trade and the prosperity of Tyre. The Shihor, as part of the Nile's delta, was a vital source of agricultural produce, contributing to the wealth and trade networks of the ancient Near East.

Geographical Significance:
The Shihor is often identified with the easternmost branch of the Nile River or a canal connected to it, marking the northeastern boundary of Egypt. Its mention in biblical texts as a border emphasizes its role as a natural division between Egypt and the lands to its northeast, including Canaan and Philistia. The fertile lands around the Shihor would have been crucial for agriculture, supporting both local populations and international trade.

Theological Implications:
In the biblical narrative, Shihor represents more than just a physical boundary; it symbolizes the separation between the land of bondage, Egypt, and the land of promise, Canaan. The Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land is a central theme in Scripture, and Shihor serves as a reminder of God's deliverance and the transition from slavery to freedom. Additionally, the economic references to Shihor in Isaiah highlight God's sovereignty over the nations and their resources, as He orchestrates the rise and fall of empires according to His divine plan.

Conclusion:
While Shihor may appear as a minor geographical detail in the biblical text, its significance is multifaceted, encompassing themes of boundary, provision, and divine sovereignty. Through its references, Shihor serves as a testament to the historical and theological richness of the biblical narrative.Shihor of Egypt

[SIHOR]

7883. Shichor -- a stream on the border of Egypt
... Or Shichowr {shee-khore'}; or Shichor {shee-khore'}; probably from shachar; dark,
ie Turbid; Shichor, a stream of Egypt -- Shihor, Sihor. see HEBREW shachar. ...
/hebrew/7883.htm - 6k

The River of Egypt, Rhinocorura. The Lake of Sirbon.
... The farthest border of the land of Israel southward is not Nile in Egypt,
but Shihor in the way to Egypt, Joshua 13:3; Jeremiah 2:18. ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 8 the river of.htm

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