Egla'im is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. The name Egla'im is derived from the Hebrew word "עֶגְלַיִם," which is often translated to mean "two ponds" or "heifers." This place is referenced in the context of a prophecy concerning Moab, a nation often in conflict with Israel.

Biblical Reference:

Egla'im is mentioned in Isaiah 15:8, which states: "For their cry echoes to the border of Moab. Their wailing reaches Egla'im; their lamentation reaches Beer Elim." This verse is part of a larger oracle against Moab, a neighboring nation to Israel, which is described as undergoing great distress and lamentation. The mention of Egla'im in this context suggests it was a significant location within Moab, possibly a city or a notable landmark.

Geographical and Historical Context:

The exact location of Egla'im is not definitively known today, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. However, its association with Moab indicates it was situated east of the Dead Sea, within the territory traditionally occupied by the Moabites. The mention of Egla'im alongside Beer Elim, another location in Moab, suggests it was part of a route or region affected by the calamities described in Isaiah's prophecy.

Theological Significance:

The prophecy in Isaiah 15, including the mention of Egla'im, serves as a testament to the sovereignty of God over all nations, not just Israel. The lamentation and wailing reaching Egla'im symbolize the comprehensive nature of the judgment pronounced upon Moab. This reflects the broader biblical theme that God's justice and mercy extend beyond the borders of Israel, affecting all peoples and nations.

Cultural and Symbolic Interpretation:

In the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, locations such as Egla'im often carry symbolic weight. The cry reaching Egla'im signifies the extent of Moab's suffering and the thoroughness of the divine judgment. The use of specific place names in prophecies serves to ground the message in real-world geography, making the prophecy more immediate and tangible to its original audience.

Conclusion:

While Egla'im is a minor location in the biblical narrative, its mention in the context of Isaiah's prophecy against Moab highlights the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern world and the far-reaching implications of divine pronouncements. The lamentation reaching Egla'im underscores the severity of Moab's plight and serves as a reminder of the broader themes of judgment and redemption found throughout the Scriptures.Egla'im (1 Occurrence)

Isaiah 15:8
For the cry is gone round about the borders of Moab; the howling thereof unto Eglaim, and the howling thereof unto Beer-elim.
(See RSV)

Egla'im (1 Occurrence)
Egla'im. Eglaim, Egla'im. Eglath . Multi-Version Concordance Egla'im
(1 Occurrence). Isaiah 15:8 For the cry is gone round about ...
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Eglaim (2 Occurrences)

/e/eglaim.htm - 7k

Eglath (2 Occurrences)

/e/eglath.htm - 7k

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