Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Gibea, often referred to as Gibeah in various translations, is a significant location in the biblical narrative, primarily within the Old Testament. It is most notably associated with the tribe of Benjamin and plays a central role in several key events, including the tragic account of the Levite's concubine and the subsequent civil war in Israel. The name "Gibea" means "hill" in Hebrew, which is fitting given its geographical setting. Biblical References: 1. Tribe of Benjamin: Gibea is identified as a city within the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. It is mentioned in the context of the tribal divisions of the land of Canaan. The city is often associated with the Benjaminites, who played a significant role in the early history of Israel. 2. The Levite's Concubine: One of the most harrowing accounts associated with Gibea is found in Judges 19-21. A Levite and his concubine stop in Gibea, where the men of the city commit a grievous sin against them. This event leads to a national crisis, as the tribes of Israel unite against Benjamin, resulting in a devastating civil war. Judges 19:14-15 states, "So they passed on and went their way, and the sun set on them near Gibeah in Benjamin. They stopped to spend the night in Gibeah, and when the Levite went in, he sat down in the open square of the city, but no one took them into his home for the night." 3. Saul's Connection: Gibea is also significant as the hometown of King Saul, Israel's first king. It is sometimes referred to as "Gibeah of Saul" to distinguish it from other locations with similar names. Saul's association with Gibea is mentioned in 1 Samuel 10:26 : "Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, and the men of valor whose hearts God had touched went with him." 4. Military Significance: The strategic location of Gibea made it a site of military importance. It is mentioned in the context of various battles and military campaigns. The city's elevated position provided a tactical advantage in ancient warfare. 5. Prophetic References: Gibea is referenced in the prophetic literature as a symbol of moral and spiritual decline. The events that transpired there serve as a warning to the nation of Israel about the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. Hosea 9:9 reflects this sentiment: "They have deeply corrupted themselves as in the days of Gibeah; He will remember their iniquity; He will punish their sins." Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological efforts have identified a site known as Tell el-Ful as a possible location for ancient Gibea. Excavations have revealed structures and artifacts that provide insight into the city's historical and cultural context during the biblical period. Theological Significance: Gibea serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of justice and righteousness in the community of God's people. The events associated with Gibea highlight the need for adherence to God's law and the dangers of moral compromise. The city's history is a testament to the complexities of human behavior and the enduring need for divine guidance and intervention. Smith's Bible Dictionary Gibea(a hill). Sheva "the father of Macbenah" and "father of Gibea" is mentioned with other names, unmistakably those of places and not persons, among the descendants of Judah. (1 Chronicles 2:49) comp. 1Chr 2:42 This would seem to point out Gibea. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GIBEAgib'-e-a (gibh`a', "hill"): A grandson of Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:49). His father was Sheva, whose mother was Maacah, Caleb's concubine (1 Chronicles 2:48). Strong's Hebrew 1388. Giba -- a descendant of Caleb... Giba. 1389 . a descendant of Caleb. Transliteration: Giba Phonetic Spelling: (ghib-aw') Short Definition: Gibea. ... of Caleb NASB Word Usage Gibea (1). Gibeah. ... /hebrew/1388.htm - 6k Library Now King Agrippa Sent an Army to Make Themselves Masters of the ... Ramah. Ramathaim Zophim. Gibeah. Judges and Ruth. Thesaurus Gibea (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GIBEA. gib'-ea (gibh`a', "hill"): A grandson of Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:49). ... Multi-Version Concordance Gibea (1 Occurrence). ... /g/gibea.htm - 7k Gib'ea (1 Occurrence) Gib'bethon (5 Occurrences) Machbena (1 Occurrence) Machbe'nah (1 Occurrence) Machbenah (1 Occurrence) Macbenah (1 Occurrence) Madmannah (2 Occurrences) Madman'nah (2 Occurrences) Caleb's (6 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Gibea (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 2:49 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |