Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Bashanhavvothjair" is derived from two components: "Bashan," a fertile region east of the Jordan River, and "Havvoth Jair," which translates to "villages of Jair." The term signifies the group of villages or settlements that were associated with Jair, a descendant of Manasseh. Biblical References: Bashanhavvothjair is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial inheritance and conquest. The primary references include: · Numbers 32:41 : "Jair, a descendant of Manasseh, went and captured their villages and called them Havvoth Jair." · Deuteronomy 3:14 : "Jair the son of Manasseh took the whole region of Argob as far as the border of the Geshurites and the Maacathites. It was named after him, that is, Bashanhavvothjair, until this day." · Joshua 13:30 : "Their territory was from Mahanaim through all Bashan, all the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, including all the towns of Jair in Bashan, sixty cities." Historical Context: Bashanhavvothjair was part of the territory conquered by the Israelites during their settlement in the Promised Land. Jair, a leader from the tribe of Manasseh, played a significant role in the conquest and establishment of these villages. The region of Bashan was known for its rich pastures and strong cities, making it a valuable possession for the Israelites. Geographical Significance: The region of Bashan, where Bashanhavvothjair was located, is characterized by its fertile lands and strategic location. It was situated east of the Jordan River, encompassing parts of modern-day Golan Heights. The area was known for its agricultural productivity and was often associated with strength and prosperity in biblical literature. Tribal Inheritance: Bashanhavvothjair was part of the inheritance given to the half-tribe of Manasseh. The division of land among the tribes of Israel was a fulfillment of God's promise to the patriarchs, and the allocation of Bashan to Manasseh underscored the tribe's significant role in the northern territories. Cultural and Theological Insights: The mention of Bashanhavvothjair in the biblical narrative highlights the importance of land and heritage in Israelite society. The conquest and naming of these villages after Jair reflect the practice of memorializing leaders and their achievements. Theologically, the successful settlement in Bashan is seen as a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering the land to His people, as promised to their ancestors. Legacy: Bashanhavvothjair serves as a historical marker of Israel's expansion and settlement in the Transjordan region. The legacy of Jair and his villages is preserved in the biblical record, symbolizing the fulfillment of divine promises and the establishment of Israelite identity in the land. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BASHAN-HAVVOTH-JAIRba'-shan-hav'-oth-ja'-ir (bashan chawwoth ya'ir). Thesaurus Bashanhavvothjair/b/bashanhavvothjair.htm - 6k Bashan-havoth-jair (1 Occurrence) Bashan-havvoth-jair Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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