Topical Encyclopedia Eziongeber (also spelled Ezion-geber) is a significant location mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of Israel's wilderness wanderings and the reign of King Solomon. The name "Eziongeber" is thought to mean "backbone of a man" or "giant's backbone," possibly referring to a geological feature or the shape of the harbor.Biblical References: 1. Wilderness Wanderings: · Eziongeber is first mentioned in the context of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. In Numbers 33:35-36 , it is recorded as one of the stations where the Israelites camped: "They set out from Abronah and camped at Ezion-geber. They set out from Ezion-geber and camped at Kadesh, in the Wilderness of Zin." 2. Solomon's Reign: · During the reign of King Solomon, Eziongeber became a significant port city. It was located near Elath on the shore of the Red Sea, in the land of Edom. Solomon utilized this port for maritime trade and expeditions. In 1 Kings 9:26 , it is written: "King Solomon also built ships at Ezion-geber, which is near Eloth on the shore of the Red Sea, in the land of Edom." · The port was a hub for Solomon's fleet, which sailed to Ophir to bring back gold and other valuable goods. This is further detailed in 1 Kings 10:22 : "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with Hiram’s fleet. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." 3. Jehoshaphat's Fleet: · Later, during the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah, Eziongeber was again used as a port for a fleet intended to sail to Ophir. However, this venture was unsuccessful. In 1 Kings 22:48 , it is noted: "Jehoshaphat built ships of Tarshish to go to Ophir for gold, but they never set sail, because the ships were wrecked at Ezion-geber." Historical and Geographical Context: Eziongeber is believed to have been located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, part of the Red Sea. Its strategic position made it an ideal location for trade and naval expeditions. The exact site of ancient Eziongeber is debated among scholars, with some identifying it with the modern site of Tell el-Kheleifeh, near the present-day city of Aqaba in Jordan. Significance: Eziongeber's significance in the biblical narrative lies in its role as a center for trade and commerce during the united monarchy of Israel. It highlights the economic prosperity and international connections of Israel under Solomon's rule. The port's mention in the context of Jehoshaphat's reign also underscores the challenges and limitations faced by later kings in maintaining the maritime prowess established by Solomon. Eziongeber serves as a testament to the historical and geographical realities of the biblical world, illustrating the intersection of faith, politics, and commerce in ancient Israel. Concordance Eziongaber (3 Occurrences)Numbers 33:35 Numbers 33:36 2 Chronicles 20:36 Thesaurus Eziongaber (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Eziongaber (3 Occurrences). Numbers 33:35 And they departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Eziongaber. (KJV). ... /e/eziongaber.htm - 7k Ezion (7 Occurrences) Ezion-geber (6 Occurrences) Ebronah (2 Occurrences) Ezion-gaber (2 Occurrences) Eziongeber (3 Occurrences) Pitched (101 Occurrences) Removed (294 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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