Topical Encyclopedia Geographical Location: Kadesh in Galilee, also known as Kedesh, is a significant city located in the region of Upper Galilee. It is situated near the borders of the ancient territories of Naphtali and is often associated with the modern site of Tell Qades. The city is strategically positioned near the Hulah Valley, providing a fertile and resource-rich environment. Biblical Significance: Kadesh in Galilee holds considerable importance in biblical history and narrative. It is mentioned in several contexts throughout the Old Testament, serving as a backdrop for various events and figures. 1. City of Refuge: Kadesh is designated as one of the six cities of refuge as outlined in the Mosaic Law. These cities were established to provide asylum for individuals who had committed unintentional manslaughter, allowing them to escape the avenger of blood until a fair trial could be conducted. Joshua 20:7 states, "So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali, Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah." 2. Levitical City: In addition to its role as a city of refuge, Kadesh was also allocated to the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel. This allocation is part of the broader distribution of cities to the Levites throughout the land of Israel, as recorded in Joshua 21:32 : "From the tribe of Naphtali they were given Kedesh in Galilee, a city of refuge for the manslayer, Hammoth-dor, and Kartan—three cities, along with their pasturelands." 3. Historical Events: Kadesh in Galilee is noted in the biblical narrative for its association with Barak, a military leader during the time of the Judges. Barak, under the prophetic guidance of Deborah, assembled his forces at Kadesh to confront the Canaanite army led by Sisera. Judges 4:6 recounts, "She summoned Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, 'Has not the LORD, the God of Israel, commanded you: Go, deploy the troops at Mount Tabor, and take with you ten thousand men from Naphtali and Zebulun?'" Archaeological Insights: Archaeological excavations at Tell Qades have provided insights into the historical and cultural context of Kadesh in Galilee. The site reveals layers of occupation that correspond to various periods of biblical history, including the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age. Artifacts and architectural remains suggest a city of considerable size and importance, consistent with its biblical descriptions. Theological Implications: Kadesh in Galilee serves as a testament to God's provision of justice and mercy through the establishment of cities of refuge. It underscores the importance of due process and protection for those who have committed accidental offenses. Furthermore, its role in the narrative of Barak and Deborah highlights the theme of divine deliverance and the empowerment of leaders to fulfill God's purposes. Cultural and Historical Context: The city of Kadesh in Galilee reflects the broader cultural and historical dynamics of the ancient Near East. Its location in the tribal territory of Naphtali places it within the context of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land, a period marked by conquest, settlement, and the establishment of societal structures in accordance with divine commandments. Kadesh in Galilee remains a significant site for biblical scholarship and archaeological study, offering insights into the historical realities of the biblical narrative and the enduring themes of justice, refuge, and divine intervention. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Kadesh in GalileeKADESH IN GALILEE See KEDESH, 3. Library From the Talmud and Hebraica How Zachariah Shallum, Menahem Pekahiah and Pekah Took the ... A Great Part of South Judea Cut Off under the Second Temple. ... Chapter xiv Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Reaction against Egypt The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is the significance of the Negev in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Places in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Why are the circumstances of the death of Moses so mysterious? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Kadesh: A City on the Southern Boundary of Palestine Kadesh: Abraham Lives Beside the Wells Nearby Kadesh: Canaanites Defeated At Kadesh: Struck Down by Chedorlaomer Related Terms Meribath-kadesh (4 Occurrences) Meriboth-kadesh (2 Occurrences) Meribah-kadesh (3 Occurrences) Ka'desh-bar'nea (9 Occurrences) Meribath-ka'desh (2 Occurrences) |
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