Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Bozrah is a significant city mentioned in the Bible, primarily associated with Edom and later with Moab. It holds historical, geographical, and prophetic importance within the biblical narrative. Etymology and Meaning: The name "Bozrah" is believed to mean "fortress" or "sheepfold," reflecting its role as a stronghold and a center for pastoral activities. Geographical Location: Bozrah was located in the region of Edom, south of the Dead Sea. It is often identified with the modern site of Buseirah in Jordan. The city was strategically positioned on the King's Highway, an ancient trade route, which contributed to its prominence. Biblical References: 1. Edomite Capital: Bozrah is first mentioned as a city of Edom, the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. It served as a capital or major city of Edom. In Genesis 36:33, it is noted: "When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place." 2. Prophetic Judgments: Bozrah is frequently mentioned in prophetic literature as a city destined for judgment due to the sins of Edom. The prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Amos speak of its impending destruction. Isaiah 34:6-7 declares, "The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood, it is covered with fat—the blood of lambs and goats, the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom." 3. Jeremiah's Prophecy: Jeremiah 49:13 prophesies against Bozrah: "For I have sworn by Myself, declares the LORD, that Bozrah will become a desolation, a reproach, a ruin, and a curse. And all its cities will be in ruins forever." 4. Amos' Pronouncement: Amos 1:12 also speaks of judgment: "So I will send fire upon Teman to consume the citadels of Bozrah." 5. Restoration and Hope: Despite the pronouncements of judgment, there is also a theme of restoration. In the eschatological context, some interpretations suggest that Bozrah will play a role in the future redemption of Israel. Micah 2:12 states, "I will surely gather all of you, O Jacob; I will surely bring together the remnant of Israel. I will set them together like sheep in a fold, like a flock in the midst of its pasture—a noisy throng." Historical and Archaeological Insights: Archaeological findings in the region of modern-day Buseirah have uncovered remnants of fortifications, pottery, and inscriptions that align with the biblical description of Bozrah as a fortified city. These findings provide a glimpse into the city's past significance and its role in the ancient Near East. Theological Significance: Bozrah serves as a symbol of God's justice and sovereignty. The prophetic declarations against Bozrah underscore the biblical theme that nations and cities are accountable to God for their actions. The eventual judgment of Bozrah is a reminder of the consequences of pride and enmity against God's people. Conclusion: While Bozrah's historical and prophetic roles are significant, its ultimate fate as described in the Bible serves as a testament to the enduring themes of judgment and redemption that permeate the Scriptures. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary BozrahSmith's Bible Dictionary Bozrah(fortress).
ATS Bible Dictionary BozrahGenesis 36:33, a city of Edom, Isaiah 34:6 63:1, and the region around it, Jeremiah 49:13,22. It is associated with Terman, and with the Red sea, Jeremiah 49:20-22 Am 1:12. Its site is found in the modern El-Busaireh, midway between Kir Moab and Mount Hor, south by east of the Dead sea. This is a village of about fifty houses, on a hill crowned by a small castle. The ruins are those of a considerable city. Bozrah of Moab, Jeremiah 48:24, may be the same place with this, or perhaps with Bezer. Easton's Bible Dictionary Enclosure; fortress. (1.) The city of Jobab, one of the early Edomite kings (Genesis 36:33). This place is mentioned by the prophets in later times (Isaiah 34:6; Jeremiah 49:13; Amos 1:12; Micah 2:12). Its modern representative is el-Busseireh. It lies in the mountain district of Petra, 20 miles to the south-east of the Dead Sea. (2.) A Moabite city in the "plain country" (Jeremiah 48:24), i.e., on the high level down on the east of the Dead Sea. It is probably the modern Buzrah. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BOZRAHboz'-ra (botsrah, "sheepfold"; Bosorrha, Bosor): Strong's Hebrew 1224. Botsrah -- "fortress," a city in Edom, also one in Moab... Botsrah. 1224a . "fortress," a city in Edom, also one in Moab. Transliteration: Botsrah Phonetic Spelling: (bots-raw') Short Definition: Bozrah. Bozrah ... /hebrew/1224.htm - 5k 1224a. Botsrah -- "fortress," a city in Edom, also one in Moab 1223. botsrah -- an enclosure, a fold (for sheep) Library Perea. Beyond Jordan. The Gospel Further Relates that the Soldiers Parted the Garments ... And ii. Christ is Glorious --Let us Make Him Known Isaiah's Discourse A Mighty Saviour The Reaping of the vine. The Triumph of Christ Over the Enemies of his Church, Isa. 63 1 2 ... The Triumph of Christ Over the Enemies of his Church. Isa. 63:1-3 ... July 19 Morning Thesaurus Bozrah (9 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BOZRAH. ...Bozrah (9 Occurrences). Genesis 36:33 Bela died, and Jobab, the son of Zerah of Bozrah, reigned in his place. ... /b/bozrah.htm - 11k Teman (12 Occurrences) Kerioth (4 Occurrences) Jobab (9 Occurrences) Bela (14 Occurrences) Sela (5 Occurrences) Zerah (22 Occurrences) Succeeded (81 Occurrences) Edom (108 Occurrences) Stead (117 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Edom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Edomites? | GotQuestions.org What is the battle of Armageddon? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bozrah (9 Occurrences)Genesis 36:33 1 Chronicles 1:44 Isaiah 34:6 Isaiah 63:1 Jeremiah 48:24 Jeremiah 49:13 Jeremiah 49:22 Amos 1:12 Micah 2:12 Subtopics Bozrah: A City of Edom: Prophecies Concerning Bozrah: A City of Edom: Sheep of Related Terms |