Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Jok'me-am is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 1 Chronicles. The reference can be found in 1 Chronicles 6:68 : "Jokmeam with its pasturelands, Beth-horon with its pasturelands." Location and Significance: Jok'me-am, also spelled Jokmeam, is identified as a Levitical city within the territory of Ephraim. It was one of the cities given to the Kohathite Levites, who were one of the four main divisions of the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel. The allocation of cities to the Levites was part of the broader distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as commanded by God through Moses and later executed by Joshua. Historical Context: The Levites were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a large contiguous territory like the other tribes. Instead, they were given specific cities and surrounding pasturelands throughout the land of Israel. This arrangement allowed them to perform their priestly functions and teach the Law of God to the people across the nation. Jok'me-am's inclusion as a Levitical city underscores its role in supporting the spiritual and religious life of the Israelites. Etymology and Meaning: The name Jok'me-am is believed to mean "Gathered by the People" or "Let the People Arise." This name may reflect the city's function as a gathering place for worship and instruction, aligning with its designation as a Levitical city. Archaeological and Geographical Insights: While the exact location of Jok'me-am is not definitively known today, it is generally associated with the region of Ephraim, which was centrally located in the hill country of Israel. The geographical setting would have made it accessible to the surrounding communities, facilitating the Levites' role in teaching and maintaining the spiritual health of the nation. Theological Implications: Jok'me-am, as a Levitical city, highlights the importance of the Levites in Israel's covenant relationship with God. The distribution of Levitical cities, including Jok'me-am, throughout the tribes of Israel ensured that the worship of Yahweh and adherence to His laws were central to the life of the nation. This arrangement reflects God's desire for His people to be continually reminded of His presence and commandments, with the Levites serving as mediators and teachers of His covenant. Cultural and Religious Role: In the broader cultural and religious context of ancient Israel, cities like Jok'me-am played a crucial role in maintaining the distinct identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people. The presence of the Levites in these cities provided a constant reminder of the need for holiness, obedience, and worship, setting Israel apart from the surrounding nations. Jok'me-am, though briefly mentioned, is a testament to the intricate system God established for His people, ensuring that His laws and presence were interwoven into the daily life of the nation. Concordance Jok'me-am (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 6:68 Thesaurus Jok'me-am (1 Occurrence)Jok'me-am. Jok'meam, Jok'me-am. Jokneam . Multi-Version Concordance Jok'me-am (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 6:68 and Jokmeam with ... /j/jok'me-am.htm - 6k Jokneam (5 Occurrences) Jok'meam (1 Occurrence) Jokmeam (2 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of I AM WHO I AM in Exodus 3:14? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the seven I AM statements in the Gospel of John? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He said 'I AM'? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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