Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Mori'ah" is traditionally understood to mean "chosen by Yahweh" or "seen by Yahweh." The etymology reflects the significance of the location in biblical narratives, emphasizing divine selection and revelation. Biblical References: Mori'ah is mentioned explicitly in two key biblical passages, each highlighting its importance in the Judeo-Christian tradition. 1. Genesis 22:2 : "Then God said, 'Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Mori'ah. Offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.'" In this passage, Mori'ah is the region where God commands Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac. This event is pivotal in the Abrahamic covenant, demonstrating Abraham's faith and obedience. The narrative underscores themes of testing, faith, and divine provision, as God ultimately provides a ram as a substitute for Isaac. 2. 2 Chronicles 3:1 : "Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Mori'ah, where the LORD had appeared to his father David, at the site that David had prepared on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite." Here, Mori'ah is identified as the location where Solomon constructs the First Temple, a central place of worship for the Israelites. The site is historically and theologically significant, as it is where God's presence dwelt among His people. The connection to David and the divine appearance further emphasizes the sacredness of Mori'ah. Theological Significance: Mori'ah holds profound theological importance in the biblical narrative. It is a place of divine encounter and revelation, where God's promises and covenants are affirmed. The binding of Isaac (the Akedah) on Mori'ah is seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's sacrificial death, with Isaac as a type of Christ and the ram as a symbol of substitutionary atonement. The construction of the Temple on Mount Mori'ah signifies the establishment of a central place for worship and sacrifice, where the Israelites could meet with God. It represents God's desire to dwell among His people and the importance of obedience and faithfulness in maintaining the covenant relationship. Historical and Geographical Context: Mori'ah is traditionally associated with the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, a site of immense historical and religious significance. The identification of Mori'ah with this location is supported by Jewish tradition and the biblical account of Solomon's Temple. The region's geography, with its elevated position, aligns with the biblical description of a mountain or high place chosen by God. Cultural and Religious Impact: Mori'ah's legacy extends beyond its biblical roots, influencing Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. For Jews, it is the site of the First and Second Temples, central to their religious history. For Christians, it prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In Islam, it is revered as the location of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, making it a focal point of religious devotion and pilgrimage. Mori'ah remains a symbol of faith, sacrifice, and divine presence, continuing to inspire and challenge believers to trust in God's promises and provision. Concordance Mori'ah (2 Occurrences)Genesis 22:2 2 Chronicles 3:1 Thesaurus Mori'ah (2 Occurrences)Mori'ah. Moriah, Mori'ah. Morn . Multi-Version Concordance Mori'ah (2 Occurrences). Genesis 22:2 And He said: 'Take now thy son, thine ... /m/mori'ah.htm - 7k Moriah (2 Occurrences) Morn (8 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |