Topical Encyclopedia Hamathzobah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King David's military campaigns. The name itself suggests a combination of two distinct regions or cities: Hamath and Zobah. Both of these areas were significant in the ancient Near East and played roles in the geopolitical landscape during the time of the united monarchy in Israel.Biblical References: The primary reference to Hamathzobah is found in 2 Chronicles 8:3: "Then Solomon went to Hamath-zobah and captured it." This passage highlights the expansionist activities of King Solomon, David's son, who sought to consolidate and extend the territories under Israelite control. The mention of Hamathzobah in this context suggests its importance as a strategic location. Historical and Geographical Context: 1. Hamath: Hamath was a prominent city-state located in the region that is now part of modern-day Syria. It was situated along the Orontes River and served as a significant cultural and commercial hub. Historically, Hamath was known for its interactions with various empires, including the Hittites and the Assyrians. In the biblical narrative, Hamath is often associated with the northern boundaries of the Promised Land (Numbers 34:8). 2. Zobah: Zobah was a kingdom located to the northeast of Israel, in the region of modern-day Lebanon and Syria. It was known for its wealth and military strength. During King David's reign, Zobah was a formidable adversary, and David engaged in several military campaigns against it. The Bible records David's victories over Zobah, which contributed to the expansion of his kingdom (2 Samuel 8:3-8). Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Hamathzobah in the biblical text underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel regarding the expansion of their territory. The conquests of David and Solomon are seen as part of God's divine plan to establish Israel as a powerful nation. These victories also serve as a testament to the faithfulness of God in granting success to His chosen leaders. Cultural and Political Implications: The capture of Hamathzobah by Solomon would have had significant cultural and political implications. It not only demonstrated the might and influence of the Israelite kingdom but also facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Israel and the surrounding regions. This expansion under Solomon's rule is often associated with the period of peace and prosperity known as the "Golden Age" of Israel. In summary, Hamathzobah represents a key location in the biblical narrative, symbolizing the territorial and political achievements of Israel under its early monarchs. Its mention in the Scriptures highlights the historical and theological themes of conquest, divine promise, and the establishment of Israel's dominion in the ancient Near East. Smith's Bible Dictionary Hamathzobah(fortress of Zobah), (2 Chronicles 8:3) has been conjectured to be the same as Hamath. But the name Hamath-Zobah would seem rather suited to another Hamath which was distinguished from the "Great Hamath" by the suffix "Zobah." Easton's Bible Dictionary Fortress of Zobah, (2 Chronicles 8:3) is supposed by some to be a different place from the foregoing; but this is quite uncertain. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAMATH-ZOBAHha'-math-zo'-ba (chamath tsobhah; Baisoba): Mentioned only in 2 Chronicles 8:3. Apart from Great Hamath no site answering to this name is known. It does not seem to be implied that Solomon took possession of Hamath itself, but rather that he "confirmed" his dominion over parts of the kingdom of Zobah, which on its fall may have been annexed by Hamath. The Septuagint's Codex Vaticanus suggests a reading-Bethzobah-omitting all reference to Hamath. On the other hand, the geographical distinctions between Zobah and Hamath having passed away long before Chronicles was written, the double name may have been used to indicate generally the extent of Solomon's conquests, as also to avoid confusion with the Zobah in the Hauran (2 Samuel 23:36). Thesaurus Hamathzobah (1 Occurrence)... WM Christie. Multi-Version Concordance Hamathzobah (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 8:3 And Solomon went to Hamathzobah, and prevailed against it. (KJV). ... /h/hamathzobah.htm - 7k Hamath-zobah (1 Occurrence) Ha'mathites (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hamathzobah (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 8:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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