Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: Harmagedon, 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 in the Book of Revelation as the site of the final battle between the forces of good and evil. The term has come to symbolize the ultimate confrontation between divine and satanic forces. Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Harmagedon is found in Revelation 16:16: "Then they gathered the kings together to 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 final judgment. 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 historical significance of Megiddo as a battleground lends symbolic weight to its mention in Revelation. Theological Significance: In Christian eschatology, Harmagedon represents the culmination of the cosmic struggle between God and Satan. It is often interpreted as the location where the forces of evil, led by the Antichrist, will be defeated by the returning Christ. This battle is seen as a pivotal event in the fulfillment of God's plan for the redemption of the world. Symbolism and Interpretation: Harmagedon is rich in symbolic meaning, representing not just a physical location but the ultimate confrontation between good and evil. It is a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face and the assurance of God's ultimate victory. The imagery of Harmagedon serves to encourage Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that God's justice will prevail. Related Themes and Concepts: · Eschatology: Harmagedon is a key element in the study of end times, or eschatology, which explores the final events in the history of the world as described in biblical prophecy. · The Second Coming of Christ: The battle of Harmagedon is closely associated with the return of Jesus Christ, who will defeat the forces of evil and establish His eternal kingdom. · Judgment and Redemption: The events surrounding Harmagedon highlight themes of divine judgment against sin and the ultimate redemption of creation. Cultural Impact: The concept of Armageddon has permeated popular culture, often used to describe catastrophic events or the end of the world. However, within the biblical context, it serves as a powerful symbol of hope and the promise of God's final victory over evil. Conclusion: While Harmagedon is often associated with fear and destruction, its biblical portrayal is one of hope and assurance for believers. It underscores the certainty of God's triumph and the establishment of His righteous kingdom. Smith's Bible Dictionary Harmagedon(hill of Megiddo), (Revelation 16:16) in the Revised Version for Armageddon. The change is chiefly Har , hill, in place of Ar , city. 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. ... see HEBREW Mgiddown. (armagedon) -- 1 Occurrence. 716, 717. Harmagedon. 718 . Strong's Numbers //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/717.htm - 6k Thesaurus Harmagedon... har-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. ... /h/harmagedon.htm - 8k Har-magedon (1 Occurrence) Harm (111 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |