Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: Har-Magedon, often referred to as Armageddon, is a term derived from the Hebrew "Har Megiddo," meaning "Mount of Megiddo." It is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Revelation, as the site of the final battle between the forces of good and evil. Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Har-Magedon is found in Revelation 16:16 : "And they assembled the kings in the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon." This passage is part of the apocalyptic vision given to the Apostle John, describing the end times and the ultimate confrontation between divine and satanic forces. Historical and Geographical Context: Megiddo is an ancient city located in modern-day Israel, strategically positioned on a hill overlooking the Jezreel Valley. Throughout history, it has been the site of numerous battles due to its strategic location on the trade route connecting Egypt and Mesopotamia. The term "Har-Magedon" symbolizes not just a physical location but also a spiritual battleground where the forces of God will ultimately triumph over evil. Theological Significance: In Christian eschatology, Har-Magedon represents the culmination of God's plan for the world, where Christ will return to defeat the Antichrist and his armies. This event is seen as the fulfillment of prophetic scriptures, where God's justice and sovereignty are ultimately established. The battle of Har-Magedon is not merely a physical confrontation but a cosmic struggle between righteousness and wickedness. Symbolism and Interpretation: Har-Magedon is often interpreted symbolically, representing the ongoing spiritual warfare between the Kingdom of God and the forces of darkness. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate victory of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. The imagery of Har-Magedon emphasizes the certainty of God's triumph and the hope of redemption for believers. Related Biblical Themes: The concept of Har-Magedon is closely linked to other eschatological themes in the Bible, such as the Second Coming of Christ, the Day of the Lord, and the final judgment. It echoes the prophetic visions found in the Old Testament, particularly in books like Daniel and Zechariah, which also speak of a decisive battle and the establishment of God's kingdom. Contemporary Relevance: For many Christians, Har-Magedon serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual realities that underlie the visible world. It calls believers to remain vigilant, faithful, and prepared for the return of Christ. The anticipation of Har-Magedon encourages a life of holiness and dedication to God's purposes, knowing that history is moving towards a divinely ordained conclusion. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAR-MAGEDONhar-ma-ged'-on (Harmagedon from Hebrew har meghiddo, "Mount of Megiddo"; the King James Version Armageddon): This name is found only in Revelation 16:16. It is described as the rallying-place of the kings of the whole world who, led by the unclean spirits issuing from the mouth of the dragon, the beast and the false prophet, assemble here for "the war of the great day of God, the Almighty." Various explanations have been suggested; but, as Nestle says (HDB, s.v.), "Upon the whole, to find an allusion here to Megiddo is still the most probable explanation." In the history of Israel it had been the scene of never-to-be-forgotten battles. Here took place the fatal struggle between Josiah and Pharaoh-necoh (2 Kings 23:29 2 Chronicles 35:22). Long before, the hosts of Israel had won glory here, in the splendid victory over Sisera and his host (Judges 5:19). These low hills around Megiddo, with their outlook over the plain of Esdraelon, have witnessed perhaps a greater number of bloody encounters than have ever stained a like area of the world's surface. There was, therefore, a peculiar appropriateness in the choice of this as the arena of the last mighty struggle between the powers of good and evil. The choice of the hill as the battlefield has been criticized, as it is less suitable for military operations than the plain. But the thought of Gilboa and Tabor and the uplands beyond Jordan might have reminded the critics that Israel was not unaccustomed to mountain warfare. Megiddo itself was a hill-town, and the district was in part mountainous (compare Mt. Tabor, Judges 4:6, 12; "the high places of the field," 5:18). It will be remembered that this is apocalypse. Har-Magedon may stand for the battlefield without indicating any particular locality. The attempt of certain scholars to connect the name with "the mount of congregation" in Isaiah 14:13 (Hommel, Genkel, etc.), and with Babylonian mythology, cannot be pronounced successful. Ewald (Die Johan. Schrift, II, 204) found that the Hebrew forms of "Har-Magedon" and "the great Rome" have the same numerical value-304. The historical persons alluded to in the passage do not concern us here. Greek 717. Harmagedon -- Har-Magedon, a mountain of unc. location ... 716, 717. Harmagedon. 718 . Har-Magedon, a mountain of unc. location. Part of Speech: Proper Noun, Indeclinable Transliteration ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/717.htm - 6k Library The Revelation of St. John the Divine Thesaurus Armageddon (1 Occurrence)... Occurs only in Revelation 16:16 (RV, "Har-Magedon"), as symbolically designating the place where the "battle of that great day of God Almighty" (ver. ... /a/armageddon.htm - 7k Harmagedon Har-magedon (1 Occurrence) Assemble (77 Occurrences) Esdraelon Assembled (186 Occurrences) Harmed (7 Occurrences) Revelation (52 Occurrences) Plain (113 Occurrences) Harm (111 Occurrences) Resources Surviving the end times - what do I need to know? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the battle of Armageddon? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning and significance of the Temple Mount? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Har-magedon (1 Occurrence)Revelation 16:16 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |