Bosora, also known as Bozrah, is a significant location mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. It is identified as a city in Edom, a region south of the Dead Sea, which was inhabited by the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The name "Bosora" is often associated with strength or fortification, reflecting its status as a fortified city.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 34:6 · Bosora is mentioned in the context of divine judgment against Edom. The prophet Isaiah speaks of the Lord's sword being filled with blood, specifically targeting Edom and its capital, Bozrah: "The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood, it is covered with fat—the blood of lambs and goats, fat from the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom."

2. Isaiah 63:1 · This passage presents a vivid image of the Lord coming from Edom, with garments stained crimson from Bozrah, symbolizing His vengeance and redemption: "Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah with crimson-stained garments? Who is this robed in splendor, marching in the greatness of His strength? 'It is I, proclaiming vindication, mighty to save.'"

3. Jeremiah 49:13 · The prophet Jeremiah proclaims judgment upon Bozrah, declaring that it will become a desolation: "For I have sworn by Myself, declares the LORD, that Bozrah will become a ruin, a reproach, a waste, and a curse. All its cities will be in ruins forever."

4. Amos 1:12 · The prophet Amos also speaks of judgment against Edom, specifically mentioning Bozrah: "So I will send fire upon Teman to consume the citadels of Bozrah."

Historical and Theological Significance:

Bosora's mention in the prophetic books underscores its importance as a symbol of God's judgment against nations that opposed Israel. The city represents the broader theme of divine retribution against those who act in defiance of God's will. The prophecies concerning Bozrah highlight the certainty of God's justice and the eventual downfall of those who stand against His chosen people.

In a historical context, Bozrah was a prominent city in Edom, known for its strategic location and fortifications. It served as a center of power and influence in the region. The repeated prophetic declarations against Bozrah emphasize the seriousness of Edom's transgressions and the inevitability of divine punishment.

Archaeological Insights:

Modern archaeological efforts have sought to identify the precise location of ancient Bozrah. While there is some debate, it is generally associated with the site of modern-day Buseirah in Jordan. Excavations in the area have revealed structures and artifacts that provide insight into the city's historical significance and its role within the Edomite kingdom.

Conclusion:

Bosora, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the ultimate accountability of nations and individuals before Him. The prophetic messages concerning Bozrah continue to resonate as a testament to the enduring themes of justice, redemption, and divine authority found throughout Scripture.BOSORA

bos'-o-ra (Bosora): One of the strong cities of Gilead taken by Judas Maccabeus (1 Maccabees 5:26, 28). It is identical with the Roman Bostra, the city whose extensive ruins lie on the Southeast border of the Hauran, on the old Roman road that runs between Der`ah and Calkhad. The modern name is Bosra eski-Sham. It cannot be identified with BOZRAH either (1) or (2), as it lies much too far north. It appears for the first time in history in the passage noted above. The ruins show it to have been a pla ce of great strength and importance. In the time of Herod the Great it was in the hands of the Nabateans. When Aulus Cornelius Palma conquered these regions, Bostra was made capital of the province under the name of Nova Trajana Bostra, in honor of the emperor Trajan. This was in 105 A.D., from which year the Bostrian era was reckoned. It was taken by the Moslems under Khalid-"the sword of God." It resisted the attack of Baldwin III. Later it fell on evil days. Now, if it be true, as the proverb says, that "the prosperity of Bocra is the prosperity of the Chauran," the case of the latter is sad indeed.

W. Ewing

Bosora
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BOSORA. bos'-o-ra (Bosora): One of the strong cities
of Gilead taken by Judas Maccabeus (1 Maccabees 5:26, 28). ...
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Dathema
... delivered by Judas and Jonathan his brother. It was within a night's march
from Bosora. It may possibly be identical with `Athaman ...
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Bosor (1 Occurrence)

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Boss

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