Topical Encyclopedia Geographical Context:Lebanon, a region known for its majestic cedar trees, is frequently mentioned in the Bible. It is located to the north of Israel and is characterized by its mountainous terrain and lush forests. The cedars of Lebanon were highly prized in the ancient world for their quality and durability, often used in significant construction projects, including the building of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:6). Biblical References: Lebanon is referenced numerous times throughout the Scriptures, often symbolizing strength and beauty. In the Song of Solomon, Lebanon is depicted as a place of beauty and fragrance: "Your lips, my bride, drip honey; honey and milk are under your tongue; and the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon" (Song of Solomon 4:11). The cedars of Lebanon are also used metaphorically to describe the righteous: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon" (Psalm 92:12). Historical Significance: Historically, Lebanon was inhabited by the Phoenicians, a seafaring people known for their trade and commerce. The region was a hub of cultural exchange and interaction with various empires, including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, and Persians. The Phoenicians contributed significantly to the spread of the alphabet and were instrumental in the trade of goods such as purple dye and timber. Prophetic Imagery: In prophetic literature, Lebanon often symbolizes the pride and loftiness of nations that stand against God. Isaiah prophesies the humbling of Lebanon: "The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God" (Isaiah 35:2). This imagery underscores the theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to bring low the proud. Spiritual Symbolism: Lebanon's cedars are emblematic of spiritual strength and endurance. The prophets frequently use Lebanon to illustrate God's power and majesty. In Ezekiel, the fall of the proud is likened to the cutting down of Lebanon's cedars: "Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon, with beautiful branches and forest shade, and of towering height, its top among the clouds" (Ezekiel 31:3). This serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power compared to the eternal sovereignty of God. Cultural Influence: Lebanon's influence extended beyond its borders through trade and cultural exchange. The Phoenicians, originating from this region, were instrumental in spreading their alphabetic writing system, which laid the foundation for many modern alphabets. This cultural diffusion highlights the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations and the role of Lebanon as a bridge between different cultures and peoples. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, Lebanon represents both the beauty of God's creation and the futility of human pride. The cedars, while magnificent, are ultimately subject to God's will. This duality serves as a powerful reminder of the Creator's authority over creation and the importance of humility before Him. The biblical narrative uses Lebanon to illustrate the themes of divine judgment and restoration, emphasizing God's ultimate plan for redemption and renewal. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 29:17Is it not yet a very little while, and Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be esteemed as a forest? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Books Printed for the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge; Infancy and Youth of Jesus --His First Impressions. The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... His Unconscious Preparation for his Work The Bible The Last Days of the Old Eastern World The Canons of the Council in Trullo. (Labbe and Cossart, Concilia ... The Desire of all Nations Hiram, the Inspired Artificer Heralds of the Morning. Resources What is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the land of Canaan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Esther in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Lebanon: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lebanon of Great and Powerful Monarchs Lebanon: (Fragrance of) of the Graces of the Church Lebanon: (Glory of) of the Glory of the Church Lebanon: (Mourning of) of Deep Affliction Lebanon: (Shaking of Its Forests) Prodigious Growth of The Lebanon: "House of the Forest of" Lebanon: Bounded the Land of Canaan on the North Lebanon: Called: Mount Lebanon Lebanon: Called: That Goodly Mountain Lebanon: Called: The Mountains Lebanon: Celebrated For: Cedars Lebanon: Celebrated For: Flowers Lebanon: Celebrated For: Fragrance Lebanon: Celebrated For: Fragrance of Its Wines Lebanon: Celebrated For: Glorious Appearance Lebanon: Difficulties of Passing, Surmounted by Assyrian Army Lebanon: Fertility and Productiveness of Lebanon: Forests of, Infested With Wild Beasts Lebanon: Formerly Inhabited by the Hivites Lebanon: Furnished: Stones for Solomon's Temple Lebanon: Furnished: Wood for Second Temple Lebanon: Furnished: Wood for Solomon's Temple Lebanon: Great Part of, not Conquered by the Israelites Lebanon: Lofty Tops of, Covered With Snow Lebanon: Many Streams Came From Lebanon: Moses Anxious to Behold Lebanon: Northern Boundary of the Land of Canaan Lebanon: Solomon Built: Storehouses In Lebanon: Solomon Built: The House of the Forest of Lebanon: Solomon had Storage Cities In Related Terms |