Topical Encyclopedia Balamon is a figure mentioned in the deuterocanonical book of Judith, which is included in the Septuagint and the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian Old Testaments but is not part of the Hebrew Bible or most Protestant Bibles. The book of Judith is a historical narrative that tells the account of a Jewish widow named Judith who saves her people by beheading the Assyrian general Holofernes.Context in the Book of Judith In the narrative, Balamon is not a central character but is mentioned in the context of the geographical and strategic setting of the account. The book of Judith is set during a time when the Assyrian army, led by Holofernes, is threatening the Jewish people. The city of Bethulia, where Judith resides, is under siege, and the people are in dire straits. Geographical Significance Balamon is referenced in Judith 8:3, where it is mentioned as a location near Dothan. The passage states: "Her husband Manasseh, of her own tribe and family, had died during the barley harvest. While he was overseeing those who bound the sheaves in the field, he was overcome by the burning heat and took to his bed, where he died in his city of Bethulia. So they buried him with his fathers in the field between Dothan and Balamon." The mention of Balamon serves to provide a geographical marker, situating the events of the narrative in a real-world context familiar to the original audience. The location is part of the broader region of Samaria, which plays a significant role in the history of Israel. Theological and Symbolic Implications While Balamon itself does not carry significant theological weight in the narrative, its mention contributes to the historical and cultural setting of the account of Judith. The book of Judith, as a whole, is rich with themes of faith, courage, and divine deliverance. Judith's actions are seen as a testament to the power of faith and the belief that God can deliver His people through unexpected means. The account of Judith, including the mention of places like Balamon, underscores the importance of trusting in God's providence and the role of individuals in fulfilling divine purposes. The narrative encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Historical and Cultural Context The book of Judith is considered a work of historical fiction, with its setting and characters serving as a backdrop for exploring themes relevant to the Jewish community during the Second Temple period. The mention of Balamon, along with other geographical locations, adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, grounding it in a recognizable landscape. In summary, Balamon is a minor geographical reference in the book of Judith, contributing to the setting of a account that highlights themes of faith, courage, and divine intervention. While not a focal point of the narrative, its inclusion helps to situate the events within a historical and cultural framework familiar to the ancient audience. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BALAMONbal'-a-mon Balamon; (the King James Version, Balamo): In the field between Balamon and Dothaim Manasses, the husband of Judith, was buried (Judith 8:3). Compare Baal-hamon (Songs 8:11). Thesaurus Balamon... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BALAMON. bal'-a-mon Balamon; (the King James Version, Balamo): In the field between Balamon and ... /b/balamon.htm - 6k Balance (12 Occurrences) Balak's (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |