Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Zareth-shahar is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. The reference can be found in Joshua 13:19, where it is listed among the cities in the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben. The verse reads: "Kiriathaim, Sibmah, Zereth-shahar on the hill in the valley" (Joshua 13:19). Location and Geography: Zareth-shahar is described as being "on the hill in the valley," indicating a location that is elevated yet situated within a broader valley region. This description suggests a strategic position, possibly providing a vantage point over the surrounding area. The exact modern location of Zareth-shahar is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to have been situated east of the Jordan River, within the territory historically associated with the tribe of Reuben. This area is part of the Transjordan, a region known for its rolling hills and fertile valleys. Historical and Cultural Context: The city of Zareth-shahar was part of the inheritance given to the tribe of Reuben after the Israelites entered the Promised Land. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, including Reuben, was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and it marked a significant moment in the establishment of Israel as a nation. The cities and regions mentioned in these allotments were often centers of agricultural and pastoral activity, reflecting the lifestyle and economy of the Israelite tribes during this period. Theological Significance: The mention of Zareth-shahar in the biblical text underscores the importance of land inheritance in the covenant relationship between God and the people of Israel. Each city and region allocated to the tribes was a tangible expression of God's faithfulness and provision. The division of the land also served to establish the distinct identities and responsibilities of each tribe within the larger community of Israel. Archaeological Insights: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly linked to Zareth-shahar, the broader region of the Transjordan has been the subject of various archaeological studies. These studies have provided insights into the ancient cultures and civilizations that inhabited the area, including the Moabites and Ammonites, who were contemporaries of the Israelites. Artifacts and ruins from these cultures help to paint a picture of the historical context in which cities like Zareth-shahar existed. Conclusion: Zareth-shahar, though briefly mentioned in the biblical narrative, represents a piece of the larger mosaic of Israel's history and God's covenantal promises. Its inclusion in the tribal allotments highlights the significance of land and place in the unfolding account of God's people. Easton's Bible Dictionary The splendour of the dawn, a city "in the mount of the valley" (Joshua 13:19). It is identified with the ruins of Zara, near the mouth of the Wady Zerka Main, on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea, some 3 miles south of the Callirrhoe. Of this town but little remains. "A few broken basaltic columns and pieces of wall about 200 yards back from the shore, and a ruined fort rather nearer the sea, about the middle of the coast line of the plain, are all that are left" (Tristram's Land of Moab). Strong's Hebrew 6890. Tsereth Hashshachar -- "Zereth of the dawn," a city in ...... Word Origin from Tsereth and shachar Definition "Zereth of the dawn," a city in Reuben NASB Word Usage Zereth-shahar (1). Zareth-shahar. ... /hebrew/6890.htm - 6k Thesaurus Zarethshahar (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Zarethshahar (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:19 And Kirjathaim, and Sibmah, and Zarethshahar in the mount of the valley, (KJV). ... /z/zarethshahar.htm - 7k Zareth-shahar (1 Occurrence) Zar'ethan (1 Occurrence) Zarezthshahar Kirjathaim (6 Occurrences) Mount (311 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zareth-shahar (1 Occurrence)Joshua 13:19 Subtopics Zareth-Shahar: A City in the Territory of the Tribe of Reuben Related Terms |