Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Elonbethhanan is a compound name in the Hebrew language. "Elon" typically means "oak" or "terebinth," a type of large tree, symbolizing strength and endurance. "Beth" means "house," and "Hanan" means "grace" or "favor." Thus, Elonbethhanan can be translated as "Oak of the House of Grace" or "Oak of the House of Favor." Biblical References Elonbethhanan is mentioned in the Old Testament in the context of the tribal allotments of the land of Canaan. It appears in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. Specifically, Elonbethhanan is listed as one of the towns within the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. Scriptural Citation In Joshua 19:43, Elonbethhanan is mentioned as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Dan: "And Elon, and Timnah, and Ekron," . Historical and Geographical Context Elonbethhanan is situated in the lowland region of the tribe of Dan, which is located in the western part of ancient Israel. This area is characterized by its fertile plains and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. The mention of Elonbethhanan alongside other towns like Timnah and Ekron suggests its importance as a settlement during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy in Israel. Cultural and Theological Significance The name Elonbethhanan, with its reference to an oak or terebinth, may indicate a place of strength or a landmark of significance. In ancient Israel, oaks and terebinths were often associated with places of worship or significant events. The addition of "beth" (house) and "Hanan" (grace) could imply that this location was seen as a place where God's favor or grace was particularly evident or experienced by the inhabitants. Archaeological Insights While specific archaeological evidence for Elonbethhanan is limited, the general region of the tribe of Dan has been the subject of various excavations. These have revealed insights into the lifestyle, culture, and religious practices of the inhabitants during the biblical period. The presence of fortified cities, agricultural installations, and artifacts from the Iron Age provides a backdrop for understanding the historical context of Elonbethhanan. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, the mention of Elonbethhanan in the tribal allotments underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the land of Canaan. Each town and city, including Elonbethhanan, represents a tangible manifestation of God's covenant faithfulness to Israel. The name itself, with its connotations of grace and favor, serves as a reminder of the divine benevolence bestowed upon the people of God. Conclusion Elonbethhanan, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, holds significance as part of the broader narrative of Israel's inheritance of the Promised Land. Its name and location contribute to our understanding of the cultural and theological landscape of ancient Israel. Smith's Bible Dictionary Elonbethhanan(oak of the house of grace) is named with two Danite towns as forming one of Solomon's commissariat districts. (1 Kings 4:9) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-HANAN; ELON-BETH-HANANbeth-ha'-nan (1 Kings 4:9). Thesaurus Elonbethhanan (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Elonbethhanan (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:9 The son of Dekar, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, and Elonbethhanan: (KJV). ... /e/elonbethhanan.htm - 6k Elon (8 Occurrences) Elonbeth-hanan (1 Occurrence) Dekar (1 Occurrence) Bethhanan (1 Occurrence) Bethshemesh (19 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Elonbethhanan (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 4:9 Subtopics Related Terms |
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