Geographical Context:
Ancient Samaria, a significant region in biblical history, was primarily the territory of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. This area is situated in the central part of the land of Israel, bordered by the territories of Judah to the south and Galilee to the north. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, fertile valleys, and strategic location, which made it a vital area for trade and military endeavors.

Historical Significance:
The territory of Ephraim and Manasseh holds considerable importance in the biblical narrative. Ephraim, often representing the northern kingdom of Israel, was a dominant tribe, and its influence is frequently noted in the Scriptures. The tribe of Manasseh, divided into two half-tribes, occupied land on both sides of the Jordan River, with the western portion being part of Samaria.

Biblical References:
The Bible provides numerous references to the region and its tribes. In Joshua 16:1-4 , the boundaries of Ephraim are described: "The allotment for the descendants of Joseph went from the Jordan at Jericho, east of the waters of Jericho, through the wilderness and into the hill country of Bethel." Similarly, Joshua 17:1-2 outlines the inheritance of Manasseh: "This was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn."

Cultural and Religious Influence:
Samaria was not only a political center but also a religious one. The city of Shechem, located within the territory of Ephraim, was a significant religious site. It was here that Joshua renewed the covenant with the Israelites (Joshua 24:1-25). The region's religious significance continued into the divided monarchy period, where it became a center of idolatrous worship, as seen in the actions of King Jeroboam, who established golden calves in Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-29).

Prophetic and Messianic Connections:
The prophets frequently addressed the region of Samaria, often condemning its idolatry and calling for repentance. Hosea 8:5-6 declares, "Your calf-idol is rejected, O Samaria. My anger burns against them. How long will they be incapable of innocence?" Despite its waywardness, the region is also associated with messianic hope. Isaiah 9:1 speaks of a future light shining in the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, regions adjacent to Samaria, foreshadowing the coming of Christ.

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, Samaria continues to play a pivotal role. Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:4-26) highlights the breaking of social and religious barriers, emphasizing the inclusivity of the Gospel. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) further illustrates the call to love and compassion beyond ethnic and cultural divides.

Conclusion:
The territory of Ephraim and Manasseh, known as Samaria, is a region rich in biblical history and theological significance. Its legacy is woven throughout the Scriptures, from the patriarchal narratives to the teachings of Jesus, underscoring its enduring impact on the biblical account.Joshua 17:17,18
And Joshua spoke to the house of Joseph, even to Ephraim and to Manasseh, saying, You are a great people, and have great power: you shall not have one lot only:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 28:1
Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty is a fading flower, which are on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine!
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Nations of the South-East
... Moab was permanently lost to the kingdom of Samaria. ... their masters, and in recovering
their ancient independence ... sayings of a king whose territory adjoined the ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter iii the nations of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Benhadad I.--- Omri and the foundation of Samaria: Ahab and ... MOUNDS OF AIN ES-SULTAN,
THE ANCIENT JERICHO ... sell them some portion of their territory; others would ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... Hebrew towns closely resembled the ancient Canaanite cities ... capitals, like Jerusalem,
Tirzah, and Samaria, but even ... those portions of their territory which lay ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... fell at one blow, or, more properly speaking, underwent a ... the two leading branches
of the ancient Iranian stock ... out in different parts of his territory, and we ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

What is the importance of Samaria in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Why had the believers in Samaria not received the Holy Spirit (Acts 8)? | GotQuestions.org

Who were the Samaritans? | GotQuestions.org

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