Topical Encyclopedia Gilead is a mountainous region east of the Jordan River, often associated with the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The name "Gilead" is thought to mean "heap of testimony" or "rocky region," reflecting its rugged terrain and significant historical and spiritual role in biblical narratives.Geographical and Historical Context Gilead is bounded by the Yarmuk River to the north and the Arnon River to the south, with the Jordan River to the west. This area is characterized by its fertile land, making it suitable for agriculture and livestock, which is evident in the biblical accounts of the tribes that settled there. The region's strategic location made it a site of numerous historical events and battles. Biblical References 1. Jacob and Laban: Gilead is first mentioned in the context of Jacob and Laban. After Jacob fled from Laban, they met in the hill country of Gilead, where they made a covenant. This event is recorded in Genesis 31:21-25, where the region serves as a backdrop for reconciliation and covenant-making. 2. Tribal Allotments: The land of Gilead was allotted to the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Numbers 32:1-5 describes how these tribes requested to settle in Gilead because of its suitability for their large herds. Moses granted their request, provided they first assist in the conquest of Canaan. 3. Jephthah the Gileadite: Gilead is the homeland of Jephthah, one of the judges of Israel. Judges 11:1-3 introduces Jephthah as a mighty warrior from Gilead, who was called upon to lead Israel against the Ammonites. His account highlights themes of leadership, faith, and the consequences of rash vows. 4. Prophet Elijah: Elijah the Tishbite, one of the most prominent prophets in the Old Testament, hailed from Gilead. 1 Kings 17:1 introduces Elijah as being from Tishbe in Gilead, emphasizing the region's role in nurturing significant biblical figures. 5. Balm of Gilead: The region is famously known for its balm, a resin used for medicinal purposes. Jeremiah 8:22 poses the rhetorical question, "Is there no balm in Gilead?" symbolizing healing and restoration. This imagery has permeated Christian thought and hymnody, representing spiritual healing. 6. David's Flight: During Absalom's rebellion, King David fled to Mahanaim in Gilead. 2 Samuel 17:24-27 describes how David found refuge and support in this region, highlighting Gilead's role as a place of safety and loyalty. Theological Significance Gilead's frequent mention in the Bible underscores its importance as a place of covenant, refuge, and healing. The region's association with key biblical figures and events reflects its spiritual significance. The "balm of Gilead" has become a powerful metaphor for divine healing and comfort, resonating deeply within Christian theology. Cultural and Symbolic Aspects Gilead's rugged landscape and fertile valleys symbolize both the challenges and blessings of the spiritual journey. Its role as a place of covenant and healing continues to inspire believers, reminding them of God's faithfulness and provision throughout history. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 31:21,25So he fled with all that he had; and he rose up, and passed over the river, and set his face toward the mount Gilead. Torrey's Topical Textbook Songs 4:1 Library The Prophet --His Youth and his Call. Jephthah's Foolish Promise Fragrant Spices from the Mountains of Myrrh. "Thou Art all Fair ... Elijah the Tishbite Elijah Micaiah's Courage in Telling the Truth Chapter viii From Jezreel to Horeb Chapter iv. Barzillai Resources What does it mean to be still and know that I am God? | GotQuestions.orgCan the flood mentioned in Genesis be proven? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to “remember Lot's wife” in Luke 17:32? | GotQuestions.org Mountains: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Mountains are the Sources of Springs and Rivers Mountains of God's Righteousness Mountains of Persons in Authority Mountains of Proud and Haughty Persons Mountains of the Church of God Mountains: (Breaking Forth Into Singing) of Exceeding Joy Mountains: (Burning) of Destructive Enemies Mountains: (Dropping New Wine) of Abundance Mountains: (Made Waste) of Desolation Mountains: (Threshing of) Heavy Judgments Mountains: A Defence to a Country Mountains: Abounded With: Deer Mountains: Abounded With: Forests Mountains: Abounded With: Game Mountains: Abounded With: Herbs Mountains: Abounded With: Minerals Mountains: Abounded With: Precious Things Mountains: Abounded With: Spices Mountains: Abounded With: Stone for Building Mountains: Abounded With: Vineyards Mountains: Abounded With: Wild Beasts Mountains: Afford Refuge in Time of Danger Mountains: Beacons or Ensigns often Raised Upon Mountains: Called: Everlasting Hills Mountains: Called: God's Mountains Mountains: Called: Perpetual Hills Mountains: Called: Pillars of Heaven Mountains: Called: The Ancient Mountains Mountains: Called: The Everlasting Mountains Mountains: Collect the Vapours Which Ascend from the Earth Mountains: God: Causes, to Melt Mountains: God: Causes, to Skip Mountains: God: Causes, to Smoke Mountains: God: Causes, to Tremble Mountains: God: Gives Strength To Mountains: God: Parches, With Draught Mountains: God: Sets the Foundations of, on Fire Mountains: God: Waters, from his Chambers Mountains: God: Weighs, in a Balance Mountains: Made to Glorify God Mountains: Many Exceedingly High Mountains: Nebo (Part of Abarim) Mountains: Often Selected As Places for Idolatrous Worship Mountains: Olives or Mount of Corruption Mountains: Pisgah (Part of Abarim) Mountains: Proclamations often Made From Mountains: Sometimes Selected As Places for Divine Worship Mountains: The Elevated Parts of the Earth Mountains: Volcanic Fires of, Alluded To Related Terms |
    |