Topical Encyclopedia The Wood of Ephraim is a significant geographical and historical location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the conflict between King David and his son Absalom. This forested area is most notably referenced in 2 Samuel 18, where the decisive battle between the forces of David and Absalom took place.Biblical Context The Wood of Ephraim is primarily associated with the rebellion of Absalom against his father, King David. Absalom, having declared himself king in Hebron, gathered a large army to challenge David's rule. The ensuing conflict culminated in a battle in the Wood of Ephraim, which is described in 2 Samuel 18:6-8 : "So the troops went out to the field to meet Israel, and the battle took place in the forest of Ephraim. There the people of Israel were defeated by David’s servants, and the slaughter was great that day—twenty thousand men. The battle spread over the whole countryside, and the forest devoured more people that day than the sword." This passage highlights the strategic and perilous nature of the Wood of Ephraim, where the dense forest contributed to the high number of casualties, even more so than the combat itself. Geographical and Historical Significance The exact location of the Wood of Ephraim is not definitively known, but it is traditionally believed to be situated east of the Jordan River, possibly in the region of Gilead. This area was known for its rugged terrain and dense forests, which would have made it a challenging battlefield. The name "Ephraim" in this context may refer to the tribe of Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel. However, the connection between the tribe and the forest is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text. The Wood of Ephraim's mention in the narrative underscores the widespread influence and reach of the tribe during the period of the united monarchy. Theological Implications The battle in the Wood of Ephraim serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of rebellion and the fulfillment of divine justice. Absalom's revolt against his father, King David, was marked by personal ambition and a disregard for God's anointed king. The tragic outcome of the battle, including Absalom's death, illustrates the biblical theme of the futility of opposing God's ordained leadership. Moreover, the narrative emphasizes God's sovereignty in using natural elements, such as the forest, to achieve His purposes. The forest "devouring" more people than the sword suggests divine intervention in the battle's outcome, reinforcing the belief that God's will prevails over human plans. Cultural and Literary Aspects The account of the battle in the Wood of Ephraim is rich in literary elements, including vivid imagery and dramatic tension. The forest setting adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, symbolizing both the chaos of civil war and the inescapable nature of divine judgment. In the broader biblical narrative, the Wood of Ephraim stands as a testament to the turbulent history of Israel's monarchy and the enduring themes of loyalty, justice, and the consequences of sin. The account of Absalom's rebellion and its resolution in this forested region continues to resonate as a powerful illustration of the moral and spiritual lessons found throughout Scripture. Smith's Bible Dictionary the Wood Of Ephraima wood, or rather a forest, on the east of Jordan, in which the fatal battle was fought between the armies of David and of Absalom. (2 Samuel 18:6) Library Blessed is He who Atoned Your Sins, that Ye Might Receive his Body ... As in a Race Saw I the Disputers, the Children of Strife, [Trying] ... Nisibene Hymns. Hymn i. O God of Mercies who Didst Refresh Noah ... The Evil one Perceived his Great Humiliation, and Boasted Himself ... Blessed be the Messenger that was Laden, and Came Happy are Ye Whose Bodies have Been Made to Shine! Blessed be that Child, who Gladdened Bethlehem To-Day! For the Epiphany Hymns on the Nativity. Hymn i. This is the Day that Gladdened Them ... Psalm LXXX. 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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