Acrabattene, also known as Akrabattene, is a region mentioned in historical and biblical contexts, primarily associated with the ancient land of Judea. The name "Acrabattene" is derived from the Hebrew word "Akrabbim," meaning "scorpions," which is indicative of the region's rugged and challenging terrain. This area is historically significant due to its strategic location and its role in various biblical and post-biblical events.

Geographical Location:

Acrabattene is located in the southern part of ancient Judea, near the border of Edom. It is often associated with the "Ascent of Akrabbim," a steep pass mentioned in the Bible. This ascent is referenced in the Book of Numbers as a boundary marker for the land of Canaan: "Then your border shall turn from the south to the Ascent of Akrabbim, continue to Zin, and end at Kadesh-barnea" (Numbers 34:4). The region is characterized by its arid and mountainous landscape, which made it a natural defensive position in ancient times.

Historical and Biblical Significance:

Acrabattene holds historical significance due to its mention in various biblical narratives and its role in the territorial delineations of the tribes of Israel. The Ascent of Akrabbim served as a boundary marker for the tribe of Judah, as described in the allotment of the Promised Land. The region's challenging terrain and strategic location made it a site of military importance throughout Israel's history.

In the post-biblical period, Acrabattene continued to be a region of interest. During the Maccabean Revolt, the area was a focal point of conflict between the Jewish rebels and the Seleucid Empire. The rugged landscape provided a natural fortress for the Maccabees, who utilized the terrain to their advantage in their struggle for independence.

Cultural and Theological Insights:

From a theological perspective, Acrabattene and its associated landmarks, such as the Ascent of Akrabbim, serve as reminders of the Israelites' journey and the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land of Canaan. The region's mention in the Bible underscores the importance of geographical boundaries in the narrative of the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land.

The name "Akrabbim," meaning "scorpions," also carries symbolic significance. In biblical literature, scorpions are often associated with danger and adversity. The presence of such a name in the region's designation may reflect the challenges faced by the Israelites as they navigated the harsh realities of the wilderness and the conquest of Canaan.

Conclusion:

Acrabattene remains a topic of interest for biblical scholars and historians due to its geographical, historical, and theological significance. Its mention in the Bible as a boundary marker and its role in subsequent historical events highlight the enduring importance of this region in the narrative of the ancient Near East.ACRABATTENE

ak-ra-ba-te'-ne. See AKRABATTINE (in the Apocrypha).

That Vespasian, after He had Taken Gadara Made Preparation for the ...
... seized upon the city, but superior in strength of body and courage; on which account,
when he had been driven away from that Acrabattene toparchy, which he ...
/.../chapter 9 that vespasian after.htm

How Judas Subdued the Nations Round About; and How Simon Beat the ...
... Jews. So he fell upon the Idumeans, the posterity of Esau, at Acrabattene,
and slew a great many of them, and took their spoils. ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 8 how judas subdued.htm

Cestius Sends Ambassadors to Nero. The People of Damascus Slay ...
... But John, the son of Matthias, was made governor of the toparchies of Gophnitica
and Acrabattene; as was Josephus, the son of Matthias, of both the Galilees. ...
/.../chapter 9 cestius sends ambassadors.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 9. <. ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm

Acrabattene
Acrabattene. Acra, Acrabattene. Acrabbim . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ACRABATTENE. ak-ra-ba-te'-ne. See AKRABATTINE (in the Apocrypha). ...
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Acrabbim

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Acra

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