Introduction:
Zoreah, also spelled Zorah, is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is primarily known as the birthplace of Samson, one of the judges of Israel. Zoreah is situated in the territory allotted to the tribe of Dan, although it is sometimes associated with the tribe of Judah due to its geographical proximity.

Biblical References:
Zoreah is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Dan. Joshua 19:41 states, "The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir-shemesh." This indicates its importance as a Danite city.

The most notable biblical figure associated with Zoreah is Samson. Judges 13:2 introduces Samson's family: "Now there was a man from Zorah, from the clan of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. His wife was barren and had no children." This passage sets the stage for the miraculous birth of Samson, who would become one of Israel's most famous judges.

Zoreah is also mentioned in the context of Samson's exploits. Judges 13:25 notes, "And the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him while he was in Mahaneh-dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol." This indicates that Zoreah was a central location in the early life and calling of Samson.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Zoreah is located in the Shephelah, a region of low hills in the Judean foothills. Its strategic position provided a vantage point over the surrounding areas, making it a significant location for the tribe of Dan. The proximity to the Philistine territories also made it a frontline city in the conflicts between the Israelites and the Philistines.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Zoreah was a fortified city during the period of the Judges. The remains of ancient fortifications and other structures have been discovered, providing insight into the city's historical significance.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
Zoreah's association with Samson highlights its importance in the narrative of Israel's deliverance from Philistine oppression. Samson's account, beginning in Zoreah, is a testament to God's sovereignty and power, as He raises a deliverer from a seemingly insignificant town to achieve His purposes.

Theologically, Zoreah serves as a reminder of God's ability to work through individuals and places that may appear ordinary or unremarkable. The birth and life of Samson, starting in Zoreah, underscore themes of divine intervention, strength, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Conclusion:
While Zoreah may not be as frequently mentioned as other biblical cities, its role in the account of Samson and its location within the tribal allotments of Israel make it a noteworthy site in biblical history. Its legacy is preserved through the narratives that highlight God's interaction with His people and His deliverance through chosen individuals.Zoreah

[ZORAH]

ZOREAH

zo'-re-a (tsor`ah): the King James Version of Joshua 15:33 for ZORAH (which see).

6881. Tsorah -- a city exchanged by Judah and Dan
... Zareah, Zorah, Zoreah. Apparently another form for tsir'ah; Tsorah, a place in
Palestine -- Zareah, Zorah, Zoreah. see HEBREW tsir'ah. 6880, 6881. ...
/hebrew/6881.htm - 6kZoreah (2 Occurrences)
...ZOREAH. zo'-re-a (tsor`ah): the King James Version of Joshua 15:33 for ZORAH
(which see). Multi-Version Concordance Zoreah (2 Occurrences). ...
/z/zoreah.htm - 7k

Zo'rathites (2 Occurrences)
Zo'rathites. Zorathites, Zo'rathites. Zoreah . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Zorathites, Zo'rathites. Zoreah . Reference Bible.
/z/zo'rathites.htm - 7k

Zoreathites (2 Occurrences)

/z/zoreathites.htm - 7k

Zorah (10 Occurrences)
... Place of wasps, a town in the low country of Judah, afterwards given to Dan (Joshua
19:41; Judges 18:2), probably the same as Zoreah (Joshua 15:33). ...
/z/zorah.htm - 11k

En-hakkore (1 Occurrence)
... Judges 15:19). It has been identified with the spring `Ayun Kara, near Zoreah.
Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. EN-HAKKORE. en-hak ...
/e/en-hakkore.htm - 7k

Enhakkore (1 Occurrence)
... Judges 15:19). It has been identified with the spring `Ayun Kara, near Zoreah.
Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. EN-HAKKORE. en-hak ...
/e/enhakkore.htm - 7k

Territory (140 Occurrences)
... RSV NIV). Joshua 19:41 And the territory of their inheritance was Zoreah,
and Eshtaol, and Ir-shemesh, (DBY NAS RSV NIV). Joshua 19 ...
/t/territory.htm - 56k

Valley (187 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Joshua 15:33 And in the
valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah, (KJV WBS). Joshua ...
/v/valley.htm - 75k

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