Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context:Lebanon, known in biblical times as "Lebanon" (Hebrew: לְבָנוֹן, Levanon), is a region frequently mentioned in the Bible, renowned for its majestic cedar trees, which were highly prized in the ancient world. The geographical area referred to as Lebanon in the Scriptures corresponds to the modern-day country of Lebanon, located along the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, north of Israel. Biblical Significance: 1. Cedar Trees: Lebanon is most famously associated with its cedar trees, which are mentioned numerous times in the Bible. These trees were considered symbols of strength and beauty. King Solomon used the cedars of Lebanon in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, as recorded in 1 Kings 5:6: "So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say. You know that we have no one so skilled in felling timber as the Sidonians." 2. Symbol of Majesty and Splendor: The cedars of Lebanon are often used metaphorically in Scripture to denote majesty and splendor. In Psalm 92:12, the righteous are compared to these trees: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon." 3. Borders and Territories: Lebanon's mountains and forests marked the northern boundary of the land promised to the Israelites. In Deuteronomy 1:7, God commands the Israelites: "Resume your journey and go to the hill country of the Amorites and to all their neighbors in the Arabah, in the hill country, in the foothills, in the Negev, and along the coast—to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon as far as the great river, the Euphrates." 4. Prophetic Imagery: The prophets often used Lebanon as a symbol in their messages. Isaiah 35:2 speaks of the glory of Lebanon being given to the desert, symbolizing transformation and divine blessing: "It will bloom abundantly and even rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God." 5. Judgment and Restoration: Lebanon is also mentioned in the context of judgment and restoration. In Zechariah 11:1, a prophecy of judgment is pronounced: "Open your doors, O Lebanon, that the fire may consume your cedars." This imagery underscores the severity of divine judgment but also points to the hope of restoration. Cultural and Economic Importance: In ancient times, Lebanon was a significant cultural and economic center due to its strategic location and natural resources. The cedars were not only used for construction but also for shipbuilding, contributing to the maritime prowess of the Phoenicians, who inhabited the region. The trade and craftsmanship of the Sidonians and Tyrians, cities within Lebanon, are well-documented in the Bible. Spiritual Lessons: Lebanon's biblical references often serve as reminders of God's creation's beauty and the transience of human glory compared to divine majesty. The cedars' strength and longevity are contrasted with human frailty, encouraging believers to seek righteousness and strength in the Lord. Library Fresh Supplies of Power. For the Candid and Thoughtful Turning Back in the Day of Battle A Discourse Thesaurus Lebanon's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Lebanon's (1 Occurrence). ...Lebanon's glory Lebanon will be given to it, the excellence of Carmel and Sharon. ... /l/lebanon's.htm - 6k Lebaoth (2 Occurrences) Excellence (31 Occurrences) Blossom (23 Occurrences) Sharon (9 Occurrences) Singing (65 Occurrences) Carmel (33 Occurrences) Abundantly (73 Occurrences) Lebanon (66 Occurrences) Resources What is Shia Islam? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lebanon's (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 35:2 Subtopics Related Terms |