Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Kedesh-Naphtali, often referred to simply as Kedesh, is a significant city in the biblical narrative, located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Naphtali. It holds historical, religious, and geographical importance in the context of ancient Israel. Biblical References: Kedesh-Naphtali is mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament. It is first introduced in the Book of Joshua as one of the cities of refuge. 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." This designation as a city of refuge underscores its role as a place where individuals who had accidentally committed manslaughter could seek asylum and receive a fair trial. In Joshua 21:32 , Kedesh is also listed as a Levitical city: "From the tribe of Naphtali they gave Kedesh in Galilee, a city of refuge for the manslayer, Hammoth-dor, and Kartan—three cities, along with their pasturelands." This indicates its dual function as both a city of refuge and a Levitical city, emphasizing its religious significance. Historical Context: Kedesh-Naphtali was strategically located in the northern part of Israel, in the region of Galilee. Its position made it an important site during various military campaigns. In the period of the Judges, it was the home of Barak, the military leader who, alongside the prophetess Deborah, led Israel to victory against the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera. Judges 4:6 records, "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 Significance: Modern archaeological efforts have identified the site of Kedesh-Naphtali with the ruins at Tell Qadesh, located in the Upper Galilee region. Excavations have revealed significant remains from various periods, including the Canaanite, Israelite, and later Hellenistic and Roman periods. These findings provide insight into the city's long history and its role in the broader cultural and political landscape of the region. Theological Implications: Kedesh-Naphtali's designation as a city of refuge highlights the biblical theme of justice tempered with mercy. The cities of refuge were established by God to ensure that those who committed unintentional manslaughter could find protection from the avenger of blood until they stood trial before the congregation. This reflects the divine concern for both justice and compassion within the community of Israel. Additionally, as a Levitical city, Kedesh-Naphtali was a center for religious instruction and worship, serving as a reminder of the Levites' role in teaching the Law and maintaining the spiritual life of the nation. Conclusion: Kedesh-Naphtali stands as a testament to the multifaceted nature of ancient Israelite society, serving as a place of refuge, a center of religious life, and a strategic military site. Its account is woven into the fabric of Israel's history, illustrating the interplay between divine command and human action in the biblical narrative. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KEDESH-NAPHTALIke'-desh-naf'-ta-li. Strong's Hebrew 5321. Naphtali -- a son of Jacob, also his desc. and the district ...... Word Origin from pathal Definition a son of Jacob, also his desc. and the district settled by them NASB Word Usage Kedesh-naphtali* (1), Naphtali (50). ... /hebrew/5321.htm - 6k 6943. Qedesh -- "sanctuary," the name of several places in Isr. Library The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... Thesaurus Kedeshnaphtali... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KEDESH-NAPHTALI. ke'-desh-naf'-ta-li. See KEDESH, 3. ... /k/kedeshnaphtali.htm - 6k Kedesh-naphtali Kedesh (12 Occurrences) Abinoam (4 Occurrences) Naphtali (51 Occurrences) Kedmah (2 Occurrences) Jael (6 Occurrences) Thisbe Deborah (10 Occurrences) Resources Who was Naphtali in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Pekah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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