Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Ararah is a lesser-known location mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. It is referenced in the context of the descendants of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name Ararah is not widely discussed in biblical narratives, but its mention provides insight into the settlement patterns and territorial divisions among the tribes of Israel. Biblical Reference: Ararah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 5:14, which states: "These were the sons of Abihail: the son of Huri, the son of Jaroah, the son of Gilead, the son of Michael, the son of Jeshishai, the son of Jahdo, the son of Buz." The passage continues to list the descendants of Gad, among whom Ararah is noted as a location associated with these genealogies. Historical and Geographical Context: The tribe of Gad was one of the tribes that settled east of the Jordan River. This area, known as Gilead, was characterized by its fertile lands and strategic location. The mention of Ararah in the genealogical records suggests it was a settlement or region within the territory allotted to Gad. The exact location of Ararah is not definitively known today, and it does not appear in other biblical narratives or archaeological records. However, its inclusion in the genealogical list underscores the importance of territorial identity and heritage among the tribes of Israel. Theological Significance: While Ararah itself does not hold significant theological weight, its mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of lineage and inheritance in the biblical narrative. The chronicler's emphasis on genealogies serves to connect the post-exilic community of Israel with their ancestral past, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people. The detailed records of tribal divisions and settlements reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the land and the establishment of the twelve tribes. Cultural and Religious Implications: The genealogical records, including the mention of places like Ararah, played a crucial role in maintaining the cultural and religious identity of the Israelites. These records were not merely historical accounts but were imbued with spiritual significance, reminding the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God. The preservation of such details in the biblical text underscores the value placed on heritage, continuity, and the divine orchestration of Israel's history. Conclusion: Ararah, though a minor reference in the biblical text, contributes to the broader understanding of Israel's tribal organization and settlement patterns. Its inclusion in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the meticulous record-keeping and the theological emphasis on lineage and divine promise within the biblical narrative. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARARAHSame as ARARAT (Tobit 1:21). Thesaurus Ararah... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARARAH. Same as ARARAT (Tobit 1:21). ... /a/ararah.htm - 6k Ararat (4 Occurrences) Adadah (1 Occurrence) Arara (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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