Ba'al-ze'phon is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The name "Ba'al-ze'phon" can be translated to mean "Lord of the North" or "Lord of the North Wind," suggesting a connection to a deity worshiped in the region. This site holds significant importance in the narrative of the Israelites' escape from Egyptian bondage.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to Ba'al-ze'phon is found in the Book of Exodus. As the Israelites were fleeing Egypt, God instructed Moses regarding their route:

> "Tell the Israelites to turn back and camp before Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea; you are to camp by the sea directly opposite Baal-zephon." (Exodus 14:2)

This instruction was part of God's plan to demonstrate His power over Pharaoh and the Egyptian army. The location of Ba'al-ze'phon was strategically significant, as it was near the Red Sea, where the miraculous parting of the waters would occur.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Ba'al-ze'phon is believed to have been situated near the northern end of the Gulf of Suez, part of the Red Sea. The exact location remains uncertain, but it is thought to have been a site of religious significance, possibly associated with a sanctuary or temple dedicated to a local deity. The name itself suggests a connection to Baal, a Canaanite storm and fertility god, indicating that the area may have been a center of worship for this deity.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Ba'al-ze'phon in the Exodus narrative underscores the theme of God's sovereignty over false gods and pagan deities. By leading the Israelites to camp opposite Ba'al-ze'phon, God set the stage for a dramatic demonstration of His power. The subsequent crossing of the Red Sea, where the waters parted to allow the Israelites to escape and then returned to drown the pursuing Egyptian forces, served as a powerful testament to God's supremacy.

This event also reinforced the Israelites' faith in Yahweh as the one true God, capable of delivering them from seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The location of Ba'al-ze'phon, associated with a pagan deity, highlights the contrast between the God of Israel and the gods of the surrounding nations.

Cultural and Religious Implications:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the presence of a site like Ba'al-ze'phon would have been significant for the local population, who may have viewed it as a place of divine protection or intervention. The biblical narrative, however, reinterprets this location as a backdrop for God's deliverance of His people, emphasizing His control over nature and history.

The account of Ba'al-ze'phon and the crossing of the Red Sea has been a source of inspiration and faith for generations of believers, illustrating the power of God to save and the futility of opposing His will.Ba'al-ze'phon (3 Occurrences)

Exodus 14:2
"Speak to the children of Israel, that they turn back and encamp before Pihahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, before Baal Zephon. You shall encamp opposite it by the sea.
(See RSV)

Exodus 14:9
The Egyptians pursued after them: all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, his horsemen, and his army; and overtook them encamping by the sea, beside Pihahiroth, before Baal Zephon.
(See RSV)

Numbers 33:7
They traveled from Etham, and turned back to Pihahiroth, which is before Baal Zephon: and they encamped before Migdol.
(See RSV)

Ba'al-ze'phon (3 Occurrences)
Ba'al-ze'phon. Baal-zephon, Ba'al-ze'phon. Baana . Multi-Version Concordance
Ba'al-ze'phon (3 Occurrences). Exodus 14:2 "Speak to ...
/b/ba'al-ze'phon.htm - 7k

Baal-zephon (3 Occurrences)
Baal-zephon. Baalzephon, Baal-zephon. Ba'al-ze'phon . Easton's Bible
Dictionary Baal of the north, an Egyptian town on the shores ...
/b/baal-zephon.htm - 8k

Baana (3 Occurrences)

/b/baana.htm - 8k

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