The term "Giblite" refers to the inhabitants of the ancient city of Gebal, known today as Byblos, located on the coast of modern-day Lebanon. The Giblites are mentioned in the Bible in the context of their skilled craftsmanship and their interactions with the Israelites.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 13:5 · The Giblites are mentioned as part of the land that remained to be conquered by the Israelites. The verse states: "the land of the Gebalites, and all Lebanon toward the sunrise, from Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath." This indicates that the Giblites were among the peoples inhabiting the territories that were to be allotted to the tribes of Israel, specifically in the northern regions.

2. 1 Kings 5:18 · The Giblites are noted for their role in the construction of Solomon's Temple. The verse reads: "So Solomon’s builders and Hiram’s builders, along with the Gebalites, quarried the stone and prepared the timber and stone for the construction of the temple." This highlights their reputation as skilled craftsmen, particularly in stonework, which was essential for the grandeur of the temple.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Gebal, or Byblos, was one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a significant center of trade and culture in the ancient Near East. The city was known for its production of papyrus and its role in the spread of the Phoenician alphabet. The Giblites, as residents of this influential city, were likely involved in these economic and cultural activities.

The Giblites' expertise in construction and stonework is consistent with the broader Phoenician reputation for craftsmanship and maritime trade. Their collaboration with King Solomon and King Hiram of Tyre in the building of the temple underscores the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern peoples and the exchange of skills and resources.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of the Giblites in the context of the Promised Land and the construction of the temple serves to illustrate the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the cooperation between different peoples in achieving His purposes. The inclusion of the Giblites in the temple project reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use diverse peoples to accomplish His divine plans.

The Giblites, though not Israelites, played a crucial role in the realization of one of the most significant religious structures in Israel's history. This collaboration can be seen as a foreshadowing of the inclusion of Gentiles in the spiritual blessings of Israel, a theme that is further developed in the New Testament.Giblite (1 Occurrence)

Joshua 13:5
And the land of the Giblites, and all Lebanon, toward the sunrising, from Baalgad under mount Hermon unto the entering into Hamath.
(Root in KJV DBY WBS YLT)

Giblite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Giblite (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:5 And the land
of the Giblites, and all Lebanon, toward the sunrising ...
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Gib'eonites (5 Occurrences)
Gib'eonites. Gibeonites, Gib'eonites. Giblite . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Gibeonites, Gib'eonites. Giblite . Reference Bible.
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Giblites (2 Occurrences)

/g/giblites.htm - 7k

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