Topical Encyclopedia Syria-Maachah is a region and people group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the ancient Near Eastern geopolitical landscape. The term "Maachah" refers to both a territory and its inhabitants, who were located in the northern part of the land of Israel, near the borders of modern-day Syria. This area is often associated with the Aramean states that existed during the biblical period.Biblical References Syria-Maachah is mentioned in the context of King David's military campaigns. In 1 Chronicles 19:6-7, the Maachathites are listed among the allies of the Ammonites who hired Aramean forces to fight against David. The passage states: "When the Ammonites realized they had become a stench to David, they hired a thousand talents of silver to hire chariots and horsemen from Aram Naharaim, Aram Maacah, and Zobah. So they hired thirty-two thousand chariots and the king of Maacah with his troops, who came and camped near Medeba, while the Ammonites gathered from their cities and came out for battle." This alliance indicates that Maachah was a recognized political entity with its own king and military resources. The involvement of Maachah in this conflict highlights the interconnectedness of the various small kingdoms and city-states in the region during this period. Historical and Geographical Context The Maachathites are believed to have been a small Aramean tribe or kingdom located in the region of Bashan, east of the Sea of Galilee. The territory of Maachah likely bordered the lands of Geshur and Bashan, making it strategically significant in the ancient Near East. The exact boundaries of Maachah are not clearly defined in the biblical text, but its proximity to other Aramean states suggests it was part of the broader Aramean cultural and political sphere. Cultural and Political Significance The mention of Maachah in the biblical narrative underscores the complex political landscape of the time, where small kingdoms and tribes often formed alliances to resist larger powers such as Israel under King David. The Maachathites, like other Aramean groups, would have shared cultural and linguistic ties with their neighbors, contributing to the rich tapestry of peoples in the region. The involvement of Maachah in the conflict with Israel also reflects the broader theme of opposition to the establishment and expansion of the Israelite kingdom. The alliances formed against David illustrate the resistance he faced from surrounding nations as he sought to consolidate his rule and expand Israel's borders. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the narrative involving Syria-Maachah serves to highlight God's providence and support for David as the chosen king of Israel. Despite the formidable alliances arrayed against him, David's victories are portrayed as evidence of divine favor and the fulfillment of God's promises to establish his kingdom. The defeat of the Maachathites and their allies is seen as part of the broader narrative of God's plan for Israel and the establishment of a united monarchy under David. In summary, Syria-Maachah represents a small but significant player in the biblical narrative, illustrating the complex interplay of politics, culture, and divine providence in the history of ancient Israel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SYRIA-MAACHAHsir'-i-a-ma'a-ka. Thesaurus Syriamaachah (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SYRIA-MAACHAH. sir'-ia-ma'a-ka. See MAACAH; SYRIA. Multi-Version Concordance Syriamaachah (1 Occurrence). ... /s/syriamaachah.htm - 7k Syria-maachah (1 Occurrence) Syrian (12 Occurrences) Maacah (30 Occurrences) Syria-damascus (1 Occurrence) Resources Does war with Syria have anything to do with the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Syria/Aram in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who is the king of the North in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Syria-maachah (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 19:6 Subtopics Syria-Maachah: A Small Kingdom Related Terms |
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