Dathema is a location mentioned in the deuterocanonical book of 1 Maccabees, which is part of the Apocrypha in the Protestant tradition and included in the canon of the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. The historical and geographical context of Dathema is significant in understanding the Jewish resistance during the Hellenistic period, particularly in the narrative of the Maccabean revolt.

Biblical Reference:

Dathema is specifically mentioned in 1 Maccabees 5:9-13. The passage describes how the Gentiles in Gilead gathered against the Israelites living in their midst, intending to destroy them. The Israelites then sent a letter to Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, pleading for help. The letter mentioned that the enemy had gathered to attack them and that they were in great distress, with the enemy encamped against them at Dathema.

Historical Context:

The events surrounding Dathema occur during the Maccabean revolt, a Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire and the Hellenistic influence on Jewish life and worship. This period is marked by the struggle for religious freedom and the defense of Jewish customs and laws against enforced Hellenization. The revolt was led by the Maccabees, a priestly family who became the leaders of the Jewish resistance.

Geographical Significance:

Dathema is located in the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. Gilead was a significant area during the biblical period, known for its balm and rugged terrain. The strategic location of Dathema made it a focal point for military engagements during the Maccabean revolt. The region's geography provided both challenges and advantages for the Jewish forces defending against larger, more equipped armies.

Theological Implications:

The mention of Dathema in 1 Maccabees highlights themes of faith, perseverance, and divine intervention. The Jewish community's plea for help and the subsequent response by Judas Maccabeus underscore the importance of unity and reliance on God during times of persecution. The narrative reflects the broader biblical theme of God delivering His people when they remain faithful to His covenant.

Cultural and Religious Impact:

The account of Dathema and the Maccabean revolt has had a lasting impact on Jewish culture and religious identity. It is commemorated during the festival of Hanukkah, which celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the victory of the Maccabees over their oppressors. The events at Dathema and similar accounts serve as reminders of the resilience and faithfulness required to maintain religious identity in the face of external pressures.

Conclusion:

While Dathema is not mentioned in the canonical books of the Protestant Bible, its inclusion in the Apocrypha provides valuable insights into the historical and religious context of the intertestamental period. The account of Dathema in 1 Maccabees enriches the understanding of Jewish history and the enduring struggle for religious freedom.DATHEMA

dath'-e-ma (Dathema): A stronghold (1 Maccabees 5:29) in Gilead to which the Jews fled for refuge from the heathen (1 Maccabees 5:9). They were delivered by Judas and Jonathan his brother. It was within a night's march from Bosora. It may possibly be identical with `Athaman which lies East of el-Muzeribe in disputing the authority of Moses and Aaron in the wilderness (Numbers 16-17; Numbers 26 Deuteronomy 11:6 Psalm 106:17). Other followers of Korah perished by fire before the tent of meeting, but Dathan and Abiram were swallowed up by the earth, with their families and their goods, at their tents.

How Judas Subdued the Nations Round About; and How Simon Beat the ...
... got together in great numbers in the land of Gilead, and came against those Jews
that were at their borders, who then fled to the garrison of Dathema; and sent ...
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Dathema
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia DATHEMA. dath'-e-ma (Dathema): A stronghold
(1 Maccabees 5:29) in Gilead to which the Jews fled ...
/d/dathema.htm - 7k

Daub (3 Occurrences)

/d/daub.htm - 8k

Dathan (8 Occurrences)

/d/dathan.htm - 10k

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