Geographical Location:
Ma'on is an ancient town located in the hill country of Judah. It is mentioned in the Bible as part of the tribal allotment given to the descendants of Judah. The site is traditionally identified with Khirbet Ma'in, situated approximately eight miles south of Hebron. The region is characterized by its rugged terrain and pastoral landscape, which is suitable for shepherding and agriculture.

Biblical References:
Ma'on is primarily noted in the context of the narrative of David's life. In 1 Samuel 23:24-25, it is recorded that David sought refuge in the wilderness of Ma'on while fleeing from King Saul. The passage states: "So they set out and went to Ziph ahead of Saul. Now David and his men were in the Wilderness of Ma'on, in the Arabah south of Jeshimon. And Saul and his men went to seek him, but David was informed and went down to the rock and stayed in the Wilderness of Ma'on. When Saul heard of this, he pursued David in the Wilderness of Ma'on."

Additionally, Ma'on is mentioned in the context of Nabal, a wealthy but surly man who resided in the region. In 1 Samuel 25:2, it is written: "Now there was a man in Ma'on whose business was in Carmel, and the man was very wealthy; he had three thousand sheep and a thousand goats, and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel." This account leads to the well-known account of Nabal's interaction with David and the subsequent intervention by Nabal's wise and discerning wife, Abigail.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The town of Ma'on, like many in the hill country of Judah, was likely a small settlement with a focus on pastoral and agricultural activities. The region's topography provided natural fortifications, making it a suitable place for David to seek refuge from Saul's pursuit. The wilderness of Ma'on, with its rocky terrain and caves, offered strategic advantages for evasion and defense.

The narrative involving Nabal and Abigail provides insight into the social and economic conditions of the time. Nabal's wealth, measured in livestock, indicates the importance of animal husbandry in the region. The practice of shearing sheep, as mentioned in the account, was a significant economic activity and a time of festivity and hospitality.

Theological Significance:
Ma'on serves as a backdrop for key events in the life of David, illustrating themes of divine providence and protection. David's experiences in Ma'on highlight his reliance on God's guidance and deliverance during times of adversity. The encounter with Nabal and Abigail further underscores the biblical principles of wisdom, humility, and the consequences of folly and pride.

The account of David in Ma'on also reflects the broader narrative of God's unfolding plan for Israel, as David, despite being pursued and threatened, is preserved to eventually become king. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises.

Archaeological Insights:
While direct archaeological evidence for Ma'on is limited, the identification of Khirbet Ma'in as the probable site provides a geographical anchor for biblical events. Excavations in the region have uncovered remains from various periods, including Iron Age settlements, which correspond to the time of David. These findings contribute to the understanding of the historical and cultural context of the biblical narrative.

Conclusion:
Ma'on, though a minor location in the biblical text, plays a significant role in the life of David and the unfolding of God's plan for Israel. Its mention in the scriptures provides valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and theological dimensions of the biblical narrative.Ma'on (4 Occurrences)

Joshua 15:55
Maon, Carmel, Ziph, Jutah,
(See RSV)

1 Samuel 23:24
They arose, and went to Ziph before Saul: but David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, in the Arabah on the south of the desert.
(See RSV)

1 Samuel 25:2
There was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and the man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats: and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 2:45
The son of Shammai was Maon; and Maon was the father of Beth Zur.
(See RSV)

Ma'on (4 Occurrences)
Ma'on. Maon, Ma'on. Maonites . Multi-Version Concordance Ma'on (4 Occurrences).
Joshua 15:55 Maon, Carmel, Ziph, Jutah, (See RSV). ...
/m/ma'on.htm - 7k

Maon (7 Occurrences)
...ma'-on, ma'-on-its, ma-o'-nits (ma`on; Septuagint: Codex Vaticanus Maor, Maan; Codex
Alexandrinus Maon): (1) A town in the mountain of Judah named along with ...
/m/maon.htm - 12k

Maonites (3 Occurrences)
...ma'-on, ma'-on-its, ma-o'-nits (ma`on; Septuagint: Codex Vaticanus Maor, Maan; Codex
Alexandrinus Maon): (1) A town in the mountain of Judah named along with ...
/m/maonites.htm - 10k

Den (19 Occurrences)
... 4. (n.) A narrow glen; a ravine; a dell. 5. (vi) To live in, or as in, a den. Int.
Standard Bible Encyclopedia. DEN. (ma`on, me`onah, "habitation"; me`arah, and ...
/d/den.htm - 16k

Daphne
... It is identified with Beit el-Ma' on the left bank of the river, to the Southwest
of the city. Here were the famous grove and sanctuary of Apollo. ...
/d/daphne.htm - 8k

Mehunims (1 Occurrence)
... This word is in Hebrew the plural of Ma'on, and thus denotes the Maonites who
inhabited the country on the eastern side of the Wady el-Arabah. ...
/m/mehunims.htm - 7k

Habitation (90 Occurrences)
... The term in the King James Version representing some 16 Hebrew words (moshabh,
ma`-on, mishkan, naweh, etc.), and 5 Greek words, is variously changed in ...
/h/habitation.htm - 36k

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