Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Hazarshual, meaning "village of the fox" or "enclosure of the fox," is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name reflects the Hebrew words "Hazar," meaning village or settlement, and "Shual," meaning fox. Biblical References: Hazarshual is referenced in several passages within the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial allotments and genealogical records. It is mentioned in the Book of Joshua and the Book of 1 Chronicles. 1. Joshua 15:28 : "Hazarshual, Beersheba, Biziothiah." In this passage, Hazarshual is listed among the towns in the southern part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. It is grouped with other towns in the Negev region, indicating its location in the arid southern part of ancient Israel. 2. Joshua 19:3 : "Hazarshual, Balah, Ezem." Here, Hazarshual is mentioned again in the context of the inheritance of the tribe of Simeon. The tribe of Simeon received its inheritance within the territory of Judah, and Hazarshual is included in the list of towns that were part of this allotment. 3. 1 Chronicles 4:28 : "They lived in Beersheba, Moladah, Hazarshual." This verse provides a genealogical record of the descendants of Simeon, noting that they lived in Hazarshual among other towns. This further emphasizes the town's association with the tribe of Simeon. Historical and Geographical Context: Hazarshual was located in the Negev, a desert region in the southern part of ancient Israel. The Negev was known for its harsh climate and sparse population, yet it was strategically important due to its position on trade routes and its potential for agriculture through the use of ancient water management techniques. The town's mention alongside Beersheba, a significant city in the Negev, suggests that Hazarshual was part of a network of settlements that supported the pastoral and agricultural activities of the tribes of Judah and Simeon. The reference to "fox" in its name may indicate the presence of wildlife in the area or could symbolize the cunning and adaptability required to thrive in such an environment. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Hazarshual is limited, the general region of the Negev has been the subject of extensive archaeological study. Findings in the area have revealed insights into the lifestyle and survival strategies of ancient inhabitants, including the use of cisterns, terraces, and other water conservation methods. Theological Significance: Hazarshual's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribes of Israel regarding their inheritance in the Promised Land. The town's repeated mention in the context of tribal allotments highlights the importance of land and settlement in the identity and history of the Israelite people. The allocation of Hazarshual to both Judah and Simeon reflects the interconnectedness and shared heritage among the tribes of Israel. Easton's Bible Dictionary Village or enclosure of the jackal, a city on the south border of Judah (Joshua 15:28; Nehemiah 11:27). It has been identified with the ruins of Saweh, half-way between Beersheba and Moladah. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAZAR-ADDAR; HAZAR-ENAN; HAZAR-GADDAH; HAZAR-HATTICON; HAZAR-MAVETH; HAZAR-SHUAL; HAZAR-SUSA; HAZAR-SUSIMad'-ar; e'-nan; gad'-a; hat'-i-kon; ma'-veth; shoo'-al; su'-sa; su'-sim. Thesaurus Hazarshual (4 Occurrences)...Hazarshual (4 Occurrences). Joshua 15:28 And Hazarshual, and Beersheba, and Bizjothjah, (KJV). Joshua 19:3 And Hazarshual, and Balah, and Azem, (KJV JPS). ... /h/hazarshual.htm - 7k Moladah (4 Occurrences) Bizjothjah (1 Occurrence) Azem (2 Occurrences) Shual (6 Occurrences) Beer-sheba (33 Occurrences) Ha'zar-shu'al (2 Occurrences) Beersheba (33 Occurrences) Hazar-shu'al (2 Occurrences) Hazar (12 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hazarshual (4 Occurrences)Joshua 15:28 Joshua 19:3 1 Chronicles 4:28 Nehemiah 11:27 Subtopics Related Terms |