The Av'vites, also referred to as Avvim or Avvites, are a people mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. They are primarily noted in the context of the conquest narratives of the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land. The Av'vites are considered one of the ancient inhabitants of the region that would become part of Israel's inheritance.

Biblical References:

1. Deuteronomy 2:23 : "As for the Avvites who lived in villages as far as Gaza, the Caphtorites who came from Crete destroyed them and settled in their place." This passage indicates that the Av'vites were displaced by the Caphtorites, a people believed to have originated from the island of Crete. The Av'vites' presence in the region was significant enough to be noted in the biblical record, yet they were ultimately overtaken by another group.

2. Joshua 13:3 : "from the Shihor east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron to the north, all of it counted as Canaanite; the five rulers of the Philistines in Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron—the Avvites." This verse situates the Av'vites within the broader context of the Canaanite territories, specifically in the area associated with the Philistine cities. It suggests that the Av'vites were part of the diverse ethnic and cultural landscape of Canaan before the Israelite conquest.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Av'vites are often considered a smaller, less prominent group among the many tribes and peoples inhabiting Canaan during the time of the Israelite conquest. Their mention alongside the Caphtorites and Philistines suggests they were part of the complex tapestry of ancient Near Eastern peoples who lived in the coastal regions of what is now modern-day Israel and the Gaza Strip.

The displacement of the Av'vites by the Caphtorites, as noted in Deuteronomy, reflects the dynamic and often tumultuous nature of ancient Near Eastern history, where migrations and conquests frequently altered the demographic and political landscapes. The Av'vites' eventual absorption or displacement by other groups is consistent with the biblical narrative of the Israelites' divinely ordained conquest and settlement of the land.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of the Av'vites in the Bible underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites regarding the land of Canaan. The displacement of various peoples, including the Av'vites, is seen as part of the divine plan to establish Israel in the land promised to their forefathers. The narrative serves to highlight God's sovereignty and faithfulness in bringing His people into the land He had set apart for them.

The Av'vites, like many other groups mentioned in the conquest narratives, serve as a reminder of the historical realities faced by the Israelites and the divine orchestration behind their journey and settlement in the Promised Land.Av'vites (1 Occurrence)

2 Kings 17:31
and the Avvites made Nibhaz and Tartak; and the Sepharvites burnt their children in the fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim.
(See RSV)

Av'vites (1 Occurrence)
Av'vites. Avvites, Av'vites. Awa . Multi-Version Concordance Av'vites
(1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 17:31 and the Avvites made Nibhaz ...
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Awa

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Avvites (3 Occurrences)

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