Introduction:
Aze'kah is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the context of Israel's history and military engagements. It is situated in the Shephelah, the lowland region of ancient Judah, and is often associated with strategic military importance due to its geographical positioning.

Biblical References:
Aze'kah is first mentioned in the context of the conquest of Canaan. In Joshua 10:10-11, the city is part of the narrative where Joshua leads the Israelites against the Amorite kings. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And the LORD threw them into confusion before Israel, who defeated them in a great slaughter at Gibeon, and chased them along the road to Beth-horon and struck them down as far as Azekah and Makkedah."

In 1 Samuel 17:1, Aze'kah is noted as a location near the battlefield where David confronts Goliath. The Philistines had gathered their forces at Socoh, which belongs to Judah, and camped between Socoh and Aze'kah. This highlights the city's proximity to key events in Israel's history.

Aze'kah is also mentioned in the context of the fortified cities of Judah. In 2 Chronicles 11:9, during the reign of Rehoboam, Aze'kah is listed among the cities that were fortified for defense: "Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah."

Historical and Archaeological Insights:
Aze'kah's strategic location in the Shephelah made it a critical point of defense against invasions from the west, particularly from the Philistines. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of fortifications and habitation layers that correspond to the biblical narrative, confirming its role as a fortified city.

The site of Aze'kah is identified with the modern-day Tel Azekah, which has been the focus of archaeological studies. Findings include remnants of city walls, pottery, and other artifacts that provide insight into the city's historical significance and its role in the defense of Judah.

Theological Significance:
Aze'kah serves as a testament to God's providence and protection over Israel. The biblical accounts involving Aze'kah often highlight divine intervention in battles, such as the miraculous hailstorm in Joshua 10, which underscores the theme of God's sovereignty in delivering His people.

The city's repeated mention in military contexts also reflects the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and their neighbors, particularly the Philistines. Aze'kah's role in these narratives illustrates the broader theme of spiritual and physical warfare faced by the people of God.

Conclusion:
While Aze'kah is not one of the most frequently mentioned locations in the Bible, its strategic importance and the events associated with it provide valuable insights into the history and theology of ancient Israel. The city's mention in various biblical accounts underscores its role in the unfolding narrative of God's dealings with His people.Aze'kah (6 Occurrences)

Joshua 10:10
And the LORD discomfited them before Israel, and slew them with a great slaughter at Gibeon; and they chased them by the way of the ascent of Beth-horon, and smote them to Azekah, and unto Makkedah.
(See RSV)

Joshua 15:35
Jarmuth, and Adullam, Socoh, and Azekah;
(See RSV)

1 Samuel 17:1
Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and they were gathered together at Socoh, which belongeth to Judah, and pitched between Socoh and Azekah, in Ephes-dammim.
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 11:9
and Adoraim, and Lachish, and Azekah,
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 11:30
Zanoah, Adullam, and their villages, Lachish and the fields thereof, Azekah and the towns thereof. So they encamped from Beer-sheba unto the valley of Hinnom.
(See RSV)

Jeremiah 34:7
and the forces of the king of Babylon are fighting against Jerusalem, and against all the cities of Judah that are left -- against Lachish, and against Azekah, for these have been left among the cities of Judah, cities of fortresses.
(See RSV)

Aze'kah (6 Occurrences)
Aze'kah. Azekah, Aze'kah. Azel . Multi-Version Concordance Aze'kah (6
Occurrences). Joshua 10:10 And the LORD discomfited them before ...
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Azel (5 Occurrences)

/a/azel.htm - 8k

Azekah (7 Occurrences)

/a/azekah.htm - 11k

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