Topical Encyclopedia The Rock Etam is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. It is associated with the narrative of Samson, one of the judges of Israel, known for his extraordinary strength and complex relationship with the Philistines.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to the Rock Etam is found in Judges 15:8-11. After Samson's conflict with the Philistines, which included the burning of the Philistine fields using foxes with torches tied to their tails, he sought refuge at the Rock Etam. The passage states: "He struck them down ruthlessly with a great slaughter, and then went down and stayed in the cave at the rock of Etam." (Judges 15:8) The Philistines, in retaliation, encamped in Judah and spread out near Lehi. The men of Judah, fearing the Philistine threat, confronted Samson at the Rock Etam, seeking to hand him over to the Philistines to avoid further conflict. Geographical and Historical Context: The exact location of the Rock Etam is not definitively known today, but it is believed to be in the region of Judah, given the context of the narrative. The term "rock" in this context likely refers to a natural fortress or a stronghold, a common feature in the rugged terrain of ancient Judah. Such locations were often used as places of refuge or strategic defense. Theological Significance: The Rock Etam serves as a backdrop for the demonstration of God's deliverance through Samson. Despite his personal flaws and impulsive actions, Samson is used by God to deliver Israel from Philistine oppression. The narrative at the Rock Etam highlights themes of divine strength, human weakness, and the complexities of leadership and deliverance in the history of Israel. Cultural and Symbolic Aspects: In the broader biblical narrative, rocks and caves often symbolize places of refuge and divine protection. The Rock Etam, as a place where Samson temporarily finds safety, can be seen as a symbol of God's provision and the temporary nature of human solutions to spiritual and physical threats. Related Entries: · Samson · Philistines · Judges of Israel · Lehi The Rock Etam, while a brief mention in the biblical text, plays a crucial role in the unfolding account of Samson, illustrating the interplay between divine providence and human agency in the history of Israel. Smith's Bible Dictionary the Rock Etama cliff or lofty rock, into a cleft or chasm of which Samson retired after his slaughter of the Philistines. (Judges 15:8,11) This natural stronghold was in the tribe of Judah; and near it, probably at its foot, were Lehi and Ramath-lehi and Enhakkore. (Judges 15:9,14,17,19) The name Etam was held by a city in the neighborhood of Bethlehem, (2 Chronicles 11:6) which is known to have been situated in the extremely uneven and broken country round the modern Urtas. Library Fragment Xli. This Indicates the Persecution against the Church ... Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... The Story of Samson, the Strong Man Samson's Wedding Feast Concerning the Fortitude of Samson, and what Mischiefs He Brought ... Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics the Epistle of Paul To Philemon the First Epistle General Of John The Kingdom or Church of Christ the Second and Third Epistles Of John Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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