Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Baalhazor" is derived from two Hebrew words: "Baal," meaning "lord" or "master," and "Hazor," which can mean "village" or "enclosure." Thus, Baalhazor can be understood as "Lord of the Village" or "Master of the Enclosure." Biblical Reference: Baalhazor is mentioned in the context of a significant event in the life of Absalom, the son of King David. The specific reference to Baalhazor is found in 2 Samuel 13:23: "Now it came about after two full years that Absalom had sheepshearers in Baalhazor, near Ephraim, and Absalom invited all the king’s sons." Historical and Geographical Context: Baalhazor is identified as a location near Ephraim, a region in the central highlands of ancient Israel. The site is associated with the shearing of sheep, an important agricultural activity in ancient Israel, which often involved a festive gathering. The shearing season was a time of celebration and social interaction, providing a backdrop for the events that unfolded in the narrative of Absalom. Significance in the Narrative of Absalom: The gathering at Baalhazor becomes a pivotal moment in the account of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Absalom uses the occasion of the sheepshearing festival to orchestrate the murder of his half-brother Amnon, as retribution for the rape of his sister Tamar. This act of vengeance sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to Absalom's rebellion against David. Cultural and Religious Implications: The mention of Baalhazor in the biblical text highlights the cultural practices of ancient Israel, where agricultural activities were intertwined with social and familial dynamics. The use of the name "Baal" in the location's name may also reflect the syncretistic tendencies of the time, where Canaanite deities and practices occasionally influenced Israelite culture, despite the Israelites' covenantal relationship with Yahweh. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Baalhazor remains uncertain, some scholars suggest it may be identified with modern-day Tell Asur, a site located in the West Bank. Archaeological findings in the region provide insights into the agricultural practices and settlement patterns of the Iron Age, offering a glimpse into the historical context of the biblical narrative. Theological Reflections: The events at Baalhazor underscore themes of justice, revenge, and the complexities of familial relationships within the biblical narrative. Absalom's actions, while driven by a desire for justice for his sister, ultimately lead to further strife and division within the house of David. This narrative invites reflection on the consequences of sin and the challenges of leadership and reconciliation in the biblical tradition. Easton's Bible Dictionary Having a courtyard, or Baal's village, the place on the borders of Ephraim and Benjamin where Absalom held the feast of sheep-shearing when Amnon was assassinated (2 Samuel 13:23). Probably it is the same with Hazor (Nehemiah 11:33), now Tell' Asur, 5 miles north-east of Bethel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BAAL-HAZORba-al-ha'-zor ba`al chatsor; Bailasor, Bel-la-sor: A place on the property of Absalom where his sheep-shearers were gathered, beside Ephraim (2 Samuel 13:23). The sheep-shearing was evidently the occasion of a festival which was attended by Absalom's brethren. Here he compassed the death of Amnon in revenge for the outrage upon his sister. The place may be identified with Tell `Asur, a mountain which rises 3,318 ft. above the sea, 4 miles Northeast of Bethel. rine Kubbet el Baul may retain the old name. Library How Absalom Murdered Amnon, who had Forced his Own Sister; and How ... Thesaurus Baalhazor (1 Occurrence)... above the sea, 4 miles Northeast of Bethel. rine Kubbet el Baul may retain the old name. Multi-Version Concordance Baalhazor (1 Occurrence). ... /b/baalhazor.htm - 7k Baal-hazor (1 Occurrence) Ba'al-ha'nan (5 Occurrences) Absalom (93 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Baalhazor (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 13:23 Subtopics Related Terms |
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