Definition and Meaning:
Hel'kath-hazzu'rim is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of a significant and violent encounter between the forces of King David and those of Ish-bosheth, the son of Saul. The name "Hel'kath-hazzu'rim" is often translated as "Field of Swords" or "Field of Sharp Blades," reflecting the deadly nature of the event that took place there.

Biblical Reference:
The primary reference to Hel'kath-hazzu'rim is found in 2 Samuel 2:16. The passage describes a confrontation between the servants of David, led by Joab, and the servants of Ish-bosheth, led by Abner. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads: "Then each man grabbed his opponent by the head and thrust his sword into his opponent’s side, and they all fell together. So this place, which is in Gibeon, was called Helkath-hazzurim."

Historical and Geographical Context:
Hel'kath-hazzu'rim is located near the pool of Gibeon, a significant site in the tribal territory of Benjamin. This area was a strategic location during the early years of David's reign, as it was a point of contention between the house of Saul and the rising power of David. The confrontation at Hel'kath-hazzu'rim was part of the larger conflict between the northern tribes of Israel, who supported Ish-bosheth, and the tribe of Judah, which supported David.

Theological Significance:
The event at Hel'kath-hazzu'rim underscores the violent and tumultuous period of transition from the rule of Saul to the establishment of David's kingdom. It highlights the intense rivalry and bloodshed that characterized the struggle for power in ancient Israel. From a theological perspective, this incident serves as a reminder of the human cost of disobedience and division among God's people. It also foreshadows the eventual unification of the tribes under David's leadership, which was part of God's divine plan for Israel.

Cultural and Literary Aspects:
The vivid description of the duel at Hel'kath-hazzu'rim is a powerful narrative element in the books of Samuel. It illustrates the brutal reality of ancient warfare and the personal nature of combat during this period. The name "Field of Swords" itself is evocative, capturing the essence of the deadly encounter and serving as a lasting memorial to the event.

Related Biblical Themes:
Hel'kath-hazzu'rim is related to several broader biblical themes, including the sovereignty of God in the establishment of leadership, the consequences of sin and division, and the fulfillment of God's promises to David. The struggle for kingship in Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, and the events at Hel'kath-hazzu'rim are a critical part of this narrative.

Cross-References:
· 1 Samuel 15:28: The prophecy of the kingdom being torn from Saul and given to David.
· 2 Samuel 3:1: The long war between the house of Saul and the house of David.
· 1 Chronicles 11:1-3: The anointing of David as king over all Israel, signifying the end of the conflict.

Hel'kath-hazzu'rim remains a poignant reminder of the turbulent history of Israel and the divine orchestration of events leading to the establishment of David's dynasty.Hel'kath-hazzu'rim (1 Occurrence)

2 Samuel 2:16
And they caught every one his fellow by the head, and thrust his sword in his fellow's side; so they fell down together; wherefore that place was called Helkath-hazzurim, which is in Gibeon.
(See RSV)

Hel'kath-hazzu'rim (1 Occurrence)
Hel'kath-hazzu'rim. Helkath-hazzurim, Hel'kath-hazzu'rim. Helkias .
Multi-Version Concordance Hel'kath-hazzu'rim (1 Occurrence). ...
/h/hel'kath-hazzu'rim.htm - 6k

Helkath-hazzurim (1 Occurrence)
Helkath-hazzurim. Helkathhazzurim, Helkath-hazzurim. Hel'kath-hazzu'rim .
Easton's Bible Dictionary Plot of the sharp blades, or ...
/h/helkath-hazzurim.htm - 9k

Helkias

/h/helkias.htm - 6k

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