Jump to: Hitchcock's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Gur-baal is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the context of King Uzziah's reign over Judah. The name "Gur-baal" is of uncertain meaning, but it is often associated with a place or region that had interactions with the kingdom of Judah. Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Gur-baal is found in 2 Chronicles 26:7. The passage describes the military successes of King Uzziah, who reigned in Judah during the 8th century BC. The Berean Standard Bible states: "God helped him against the Philistines, against the Arabs who lived in Gur-baal, and against the Meunites." Historical Context: During King Uzziah's reign, Judah experienced a period of prosperity and military strength. Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was noted for his efforts to fortify Jerusalem and expand Judah's influence. The mention of Gur-baal in the context of Uzziah's military campaigns suggests that it was a region inhabited by Arab tribes, possibly located in the southern or eastern territories adjacent to Judah. Geographical Considerations: The exact location of Gur-baal is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. Some scholars propose that it may have been situated in the Arabian Peninsula or in the vicinity of Edom, given the association with Arab inhabitants. The lack of additional biblical or archaeological evidence leaves its precise location open to speculation. Cultural and Religious Significance: The mention of Gur-baal highlights the interactions between the kingdom of Judah and neighboring peoples, including the Philistines, Arabs, and Meunites. These interactions were often marked by conflict, as Judah sought to assert its dominance and secure its borders. The reference to God helping Uzziah against these groups underscores the biblical theme of divine assistance in the military victories of Israel and Judah. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the account of Uzziah's victories, including those over the inhabitants of Gur-baal, serves as a testament to God's favor and support for the kings of Judah who sought to follow His commandments. It reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's covenant relationship with Israel and His role in guiding and protecting His chosen people. Conclusion: While Gur-baal is a minor and somewhat obscure location in the biblical text, its mention in the context of Uzziah's reign provides insight into the geopolitical landscape of the time and the ongoing struggles between Judah and its neighbors. The account serves as a reminder of the importance of divine guidance and support in the history of Israel and Judah. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Gur-BaalEaston's Bible Dictionary Sojourn of Baal, a place in Arabia (2 Chronicles 26:7) where there was probably a temple of Baal. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GUR-BAALgur-ba'-al (gur ba`-al): The residence of certain Arabs against whom God helped Uzziah, king of Judah (2 Chronicles 26:7). Its mention immediately after the Philistines may have suggested the "Gerar" of the Targum. Association with the Meunim points to the East. It may be taken as certain that Jebel Neby Harun, near Petra, has always been crowned by a sanctuary. This may have been "the dwelling place of Baal"; or, accepting Kittel's emendation (Tur ba`al), "the rock" or "mountain of Baal." The Arabs probably dwelt in the region before the days of Petra (EB, under the word) Strong's Hebrew 1485. Gur-baal -- "dwelling of Baal," a place in ArabiaGur-baal. 1484, 1485. Gur-baal. 1486 . "dwelling of Baal," a place in Arabia. Transliteration: Gur-baal Phonetic Spelling: (goor ... /hebrew/1485.htm - 6k Library The Nations of the South-East Thesaurus Gurbaal (1 Occurrence)... of Baal. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. GUR-BAAL. gur-ba ... W. Ewing. Multi-Version Concordance Gurbaal (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles ... /g/gurbaal.htm - 7k Gur-baal (1 Occurrence) Gur (2 Occurrences) Gurba'al (1 Occurrence) Uzziah (27 Occurrences) Me-u'nites (2 Occurrences) Maonites (3 Occurrences) Meunim (5 Occurrences) Mehunims (1 Occurrence) Meunites (3 Occurrences) Resources What was Baal Peor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Baal? | GotQuestions.org Why was the worship of Baal and Asherah a constant struggle for the Israelites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gur-baal (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 26:7 Subtopics Gur-Baal: A Town Between Canaan and Arabia Related Terms |
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