Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Thecoe, also known as Tekoa, is a town of significant historical and biblical importance located in the hill country of Judah. It is mentioned several times in the Old Testament and is associated with notable biblical figures and events. The town is situated approximately 12 miles south of Jerusalem and is known for its rugged terrain and strategic location. Biblical References: 1. Amos the Prophet: Thecoe is most famously known as the hometown of the prophet Amos. Amos, a shepherd and fig tree farmer, was called by God to prophesy against the northern kingdom of Israel. Despite his humble origins, Amos delivered powerful messages of judgment and repentance. In Amos 1:1 , it is written: "The words of Amos, who was among the sheep breeders from Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah and Jeroboam son of Jehoash king of Israel, two years before the earthquake." 2. Wise Woman of Tekoa: The town is also noted for the wise woman of Tekoa, who was employed by Joab, the commander of King David's army, to reconcile David with his estranged son Absalom. This account is found in 2 Samuel 14:2-3 : "So Joab sent to Tekoa and brought from there a wise woman. He said to her, 'Please pretend to be a mourner and put on mourning clothes. Do not anoint yourself with oil, but act like a woman who has been mourning for the dead a long time.'" 3. Rehoboam's Fortifications: Thecoe was fortified by King Rehoboam as part of his defensive strategy for Judah. This is recorded in 2 Chronicles 11:5-6 : "Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem and built up cities for defense in Judah. He built up Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa..." 4. Jehoshaphat's Battle: The town is also mentioned in the context of King Jehoshaphat's battle against the Moabites and Ammonites. In 2 Chronicles 20:20 , it states: "Early in the morning they got up and left for the Wilderness of Tekoa. As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood up and said, 'Listen to me, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Believe in the LORD your God, and you will be upheld; believe in His prophets, and you will succeed.'" Historical and Archaeological Insights: Thecoe's location made it a vital point for communication and defense in ancient Judah. Archaeological findings in the area have uncovered remnants of ancient fortifications and settlements, providing insight into its historical significance. The rugged landscape and proximity to the wilderness also made it an ideal location for shepherding, aligning with the biblical depiction of Amos's occupation. Cultural and Theological Significance: Thecoe holds a place of importance in biblical history as a center of prophetic activity and wisdom. The accounts associated with Thecoe emphasize themes of divine calling, wisdom, and reconciliation. The account of Amos highlights God's use of ordinary individuals to deliver extraordinary messages, while the wise woman of Tekoa exemplifies the use of wisdom and diplomacy in resolving conflict. Thecoe's mention in the context of fortifications and battles underscores the ongoing struggle for security and faithfulness in the history of Judah. The town's legacy in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the enduring call to trust in God's sovereignty and the power of prophetic voices in guiding His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia THECOEthe-ko'-e (1 Maccabees 9:33). Library That Vespasian, after He had Taken Gadara Made Preparation for the ... Thesaurus Thecoe... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia THECOE. the-ko'-e (1 Maccabees 9:33). See TEKOA. ... /t/thecoe.htm - 6k Thebez (3 Occurrences) Tekoa (12 Occurrences) Thee (22896 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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