Definition and Etymology:
Lebo-hamath, often referred to as "the entrance of Hamath," is a geographical term found in the Hebrew Bible. The name "Lebo-hamath" is derived from the Hebrew words "לְבוֹא" (lebo), meaning "entrance" or "approach," and "חֲמָת" (hamath), referring to the ancient city of Hamath. This term is used to describe a northern boundary marker for the land of Israel.

Biblical References:
Lebo-hamath is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of defining the territorial boundaries of Israel. In Numbers 34:7-8, God instructs Moses regarding the northern border of the Promised Land: "Your northern border will run from the Great Sea directly to Mount Hor, and from Mount Hor to Lebo-hamath, then extend to Zedad." This passage highlights Lebo-hamath as a significant landmark in the delineation of Israel's territory.

In Joshua 13:5, the region is again mentioned as part of the land yet to be conquered: "the land of the Gebalites, and all Lebanon to the east, from Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath." This indicates the extent of the land promised to the Israelites, which included territories reaching up to Lebo-hamath.

The term also appears in the context of King Solomon's reign. In 1 Kings 8:65, during the dedication of the Temple, the text states: "So Solomon and all Israel with him—a great assembly of people from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of Egypt—observed the festival before the LORD our God for seven days and seven more days—fourteen days in all." This reference underscores the vastness of Solomon's kingdom, stretching from the northern boundary at Lebo-hamath to the southern extremity.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Lebo-hamath is associated with the region near the city of Hamath, which is located in modern-day Syria. Historically, Hamath was a significant city-state and a center of trade and culture in the ancient Near East. The "entrance of Hamath" likely refers to a pass or a route leading into the territory of Hamath, marking the northern extent of the land occupied or controlled by Israel at various times.

The strategic importance of Lebo-hamath is evident in its repeated mention as a boundary marker. It served as a natural frontier, separating the land of Israel from the territories to the north. The location of Lebo-hamath would have been crucial for trade, military campaigns, and the defense of the northern border.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, Lebo-hamath represents the fulfillment of God's promise to the patriarchs regarding the extent of the land given to their descendants. The repeated mention of this boundary in the context of Israel's territorial claims underscores the faithfulness of God in providing for His people. It also serves as a reminder of the ideal boundaries of the Promised Land, which were not fully realized until the reigns of David and Solomon.

In prophetic literature, the mention of Lebo-hamath often symbolizes the idealized extent of Israel's territory, reflecting God's ultimate plan for His chosen people. The boundaries described in the Bible, including Lebo-hamath, serve as a testament to God's covenantal promises and His sovereignty over the nations.935. bo -- to come in, come, go in, go
... 1), indeed come (1), inserted (2), invade (1), invade when they came (1), invaded
(1), invades (1), keep on coming (1), laid (1), Lebo-hamath (6), led (3 ...
/hebrew/935.htm - 8kLebo-hamath (6 Occurrences)
Lebo-hamath. Lebo, Lebo-hamath. Lebonah . Multi-Version Concordance
Lebo-hamath (6 Occurrences). Numbers 13:21 So they ...
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Lebo (12 Occurrences)

/l/lebo.htm - 9k

Lebonah (1 Occurrence)

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