Zemara'im is a term that appears in the Bible, referring to both a location and a people group. The name is derived from the Hebrew root "zmr," which can mean "to prune" or "to sing," though its exact etymology in this context is uncertain. Zemara'im is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the tribal allotments and historical narratives of the Israelites.

1. Zemaraim as a Location:

Zemara'im is identified as a town in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. It is mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the delineation of the tribal boundaries. Joshua 18:22 lists it among the towns of Benjamin: "Beth Arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel." This indicates its geographical significance during the period of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. The exact location of Zemara'im is not definitively known today, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the central highlands of ancient Israel, within the region allocated to Benjamin.

2. Zemaraim in Historical Context:

The name Zemara'im also appears in the context of a significant historical event during the divided monarchy. In 2 Chronicles 13, the narrative describes a battle between Abijah, king of Judah, and Jeroboam, king of Israel. The battle took place in the hill country of Ephraim, near Mount Zemaraim. 2 Chronicles 13:4 states: "Then Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim in the hill country of Ephraim and said, 'Hear me, O Jeroboam and all Israel!'" This event underscores the strategic importance of the location and its role in the power struggles between the northern and southern kingdoms.

3. Zemaraim as a People Group:

The Zemarites, or Zemarim, are mentioned in the genealogical records of the descendants of Canaan, the son of Ham. In Genesis 10:18 , the Zemarites are listed among the Canaanite tribes: "the Arvadites, the Zemarites, and the Hamathites." This reference places the Zemarites within the broader context of the ancient Near Eastern peoples who inhabited the land prior to the Israelite conquest. The Zemarites are believed to have been associated with the city of Zemar, also known as Simyra, located in the region of modern-day Syria.

4. Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Zemara'im in the Bible serves as a reminder of the historical and geographical realities faced by the Israelites. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, including the town of Zemara'im, reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the inheritance of the land. Additionally, the battle at Mount Zemaraim highlights the ongoing conflict and division within the chosen people, emphasizing the need for faithfulness and reliance on God amidst political and military challenges.

In summary, Zemara'im holds both geographical and historical significance within the biblical narrative, serving as a testament to the complex history of the Israelites and their interactions with surrounding peoples.Zemara'im (2 Occurrences)

Joshua 18:22
and Beth-arabah, and Zemaraim, and Beth-el;
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 13:4
And Abijah stood up upon mount Zemaraim, which is in the hill-country of Ephraim, and said: 'Hear me, O Jeroboam and all Israel;
(See RSV)

Zemara'im (2 Occurrences)
Zemara'im. Zemaraim, Zemara'im. Zemarite . Multi-Version Concordance
Zemara'im (2 Occurrences). Joshua 18:22 and Beth-arabah, and ...
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Zemaraim (2 Occurrences)

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Zemarite (2 Occurrences)

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