Topical Encyclopedia The Stone of Abel is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of 1 Samuel 6:18. This stone is associated with the return of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines to the Israelites. The passage reads: "And the number of the gold rats was according to the number of Philistine cities belonging to the five rulers—the fortified cities, with their country villages. The large rock on which they set the ark of the LORD is a witness to this day in the field of Joshua of Beth-shemesh." (1 Samuel 6:18).Historical Context The Stone of Abel is situated in the narrative of the Ark's return after it had been captured by the Philistines. The Philistines, having suffered plagues and misfortunes attributed to the presence of the Ark, decided to send it back to Israelite territory. They placed the Ark on a new cart, along with offerings of gold, and sent it back to the Israelites, guided by two cows. The Ark came to rest in the field of Joshua of Beth-shemesh, where the large stone served as a makeshift altar upon which the Levites set the Ark. Significance The Stone of Abel is significant for several reasons. First, it serves as a physical marker of the divine intervention and the miraculous return of the Ark to Israel. The stone is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to reclaim what is His, even from the hands of foreign powers. It also symbolizes the restoration of God's presence among His people, as the Ark represented God's throne and His covenant with Israel. Furthermore, the stone is a witness to the events that transpired, as noted in the biblical text. It stands as a memorial to the power of God and the importance of obedience and reverence towards Him. The Israelites' initial joy at the return of the Ark was tempered by the subsequent judgment upon those who looked into the Ark, underscoring the holiness of God and the need for proper worship. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the Stone of Abel highlights themes of repentance, restitution, and reverence. The Philistines' decision to return the Ark with offerings reflects an acknowledgment of the God of Israel's power and a desire to appease Him. For the Israelites, the event serves as a reminder of the necessity of approaching God with the proper respect and adherence to His commandments. The Stone of Abel also prefigures the ultimate restoration and reconciliation found in Christ, who is the cornerstone of the faith. Just as the stone marked the return of God's presence to Israel, Christ's atoning work brings believers into the presence of God, restoring the broken relationship caused by sin. Location and Legacy The exact location of the Stone of Abel is not known today, but its legacy endures through the biblical narrative. It remains a symbol of God's faithfulness and the importance of maintaining a covenant relationship with Him. The account of the Stone of Abel continues to inspire believers to trust in God's providence and to honor Him in all aspects of life. Smith's Bible Dictionary Stone Of Abel(the great abel), the place where the ark rested in the field of Joshua at Beth-shemesh. (1 Samuel 6:18) Library The Criminal and his Relation to Society. Concerning the Posterity of Adam, and the Ten Generations from Him ... On the Church On the Faith. On the Sacrifice of the Mass The Open Door. The "Demonstrations" of Aphrahat. The Voice of the Blood of Christ Letter S The Law Anterior to Moses. Resources Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the purpose of Stonehenge? | GotQuestions.org Why would God's law command a woman who is not a virgin on her wedding night to be stoned to death? | GotQuestions.org Stone: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |