Topical Bible: Mount Zalmon

Bible > Topical > Mount Zalmon

◄ Mount Zalmon ►

Jump to: Smith's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Mount Zalmon is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Psalms and the Book of Judges. It is a mountain that holds both geographical and symbolic significance within the biblical narrative.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 9:48 : "So Abimelech and all his troops went up to Mount Zalmon. He took an ax in his hand and cut down a branch, which he lifted to his shoulder. 'Quick!' he said to the men with him, 'Do what you have seen me do!'" In this passage, Mount Zalmon is the site where Abimelech, the son of Gideon, leads his men in a campaign against the city of Shechem. The mountain serves as a strategic location for gathering resources, as Abimelech instructs his men to cut down branches to use in their assault.

2. Psalm 68:14 : "When the Almighty scattered the kings in the land, it was like snow falling on Zalmon." Here, Mount Zalmon is used metaphorically to describe the power and majesty of God's intervention in battle. The imagery of snow on Zalmon suggests purity, divine presence, and the overwhelming nature of God's might as He scatters the enemies of Israel.

Geographical and Historical Context:

Mount Zalmon is traditionally identified with a location near Shechem, in the region of Samaria. The exact identification of the mountain remains uncertain, but it is generally considered to be in the central hill country of ancient Israel. The name "Zalmon" is thought to mean "shady" or "dark," possibly referring to the dense forests that may have covered the mountain in ancient times.

Theological Significance:

In the biblical narrative, Mount Zalmon serves as a backdrop for divine intervention and human action. In Judges, it is a place where human ambition and violence are evident, as Abimelech seeks to consolidate power through force. The mountain becomes a stage for the unfolding of God's justice, as Abimelech's actions ultimately lead to his downfall.

In Psalms, Mount Zalmon is a symbol of God's sovereignty and power. The imagery of snow on the mountain highlights the purity and overwhelming nature of God's presence, serving as a reminder of His ability to protect and deliver His people. The reference to Zalmon in this context underscores the theme of divine victory over earthly powers.

Cultural and Literary Aspects:

The use of Mount Zalmon in biblical literature reflects the broader cultural and literary practices of the ancient Near East, where mountains often symbolize divine presence and authority. The mountain's mention in both historical and poetic texts illustrates its multifaceted role in Israel's religious and cultural imagination.

Mount Zalmon, though not frequently mentioned in the Bible, provides a rich tapestry of meaning through its association with both human endeavors and divine intervention. Its presence in the biblical text invites readers to reflect on the themes of power, justice, and the enduring sovereignty of God.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

Mount Zalmon

a wooded eminence in the immediate neighborhood of Shechem. (Judges 9:48) The name of Dalmanutha has been supposed to be a corruption of that of Zalmon.

Library

The Crowning of Abimelech
... And Abimelech gat him up to mount Zalmon, he and all the people that were with him;
and Abimelech took an ax in his hand, and cut down a bough from the trees ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/iii the crowning of abimelech.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... against the city and took it, but the chief citizens had taken refuge in "the hold
of the house of El-berith." "Abimelech gat him up to Mount Zalmon, he and ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm