Overview:
Gedera is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal allotments of Judah. It is one of the cities listed in the genealogical and territorial records, reflecting its significance in the ancient landscape of Israel. The name "Gedera" is thought to mean "wall" or "enclosure," suggesting a fortified or enclosed settlement.

Biblical References:
Gedera is mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Judah. In Joshua 15:36, the Berean Standard Bible lists Gedera among the cities in the Shephelah, or the lowland region: "Shaaraim, Adithaim, and Gederah (or Gederothaim)—fourteen cities, along with their villages."

Historical and Geographical Context:
The Shephelah, where Gedera is located, is a region of rolling hills situated between the coastal plain and the central highlands of Judah. This area was strategically important due to its fertile land and its role as a buffer zone between the Philistine territories to the west and the heartland of Judah to the east. The mention of Gedera alongside other cities in this region underscores its role in the network of settlements that supported the agricultural and defensive needs of the tribe of Judah.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of ancient Gedera is not definitively identified, it is often associated with sites that show evidence of ancient fortifications and settlement patterns typical of the Iron Age. Archaeological findings in the Shephelah region have revealed remnants of city walls, gates, and other structures that align with the biblical description of fortified cities.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
Gedera, like many cities in the tribal allotments, represents the fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land among the tribes of Israel is a testament to God's faithfulness and the establishment of Israel as a nation in the Promised Land. The cities, including Gedera, served not only as physical habitations but also as centers of worship, governance, and community life, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Related Biblical Themes:
The mention of Gedera in the context of Judah's inheritance ties into broader biblical themes of land, promise, and covenant. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing God's provision and the establishment of His people in a land flowing with milk and honey. The fortified nature of cities like Gedera also highlights the theme of divine protection and the need for vigilance against external threats, a reality for the Israelites throughout their history.

Conclusion:
Gedera's inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and God's unfolding plan for His people. As part of the tribal inheritance of Judah, Gedera stands as a witness to the enduring legacy of God's promises and the historical realities of life in ancient Israel.Gedera (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 4:23
These were the potters, and the inhabitants of Netaim and Gederah: there they lived with the king for his work.
(Root in WEB ASV YLT NAS NIV)

Gedera (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gedera (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:23 These
were the potters, and the inhabitants of Netaim and Gederah ...
/g/gedera.htm - 6k

Gederah (2 Occurrences)

/g/gederah.htm - 8k

Neta'im (1 Occurrence)
... Neta'im (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:23 They 'are' the potters and inhabitants
of Netaim and Gedera; with the king in his work they dwelt there. (See RSV). ...
/n/neta'im.htm - 6k

Gede'rah (2 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 4:23 They 'are' the potters and inhabitants of Netaim and
Gedera; with the king in his work they dwelt there. (See RSV). ...
/g/gede'rah.htm - 6k

Geder (1 Occurrence)

/g/geder.htm - 7k

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