Definition and Meaning:
Naphothdor, also referred to as "Naphoth Dor" in some translations, is a geographical term found in the Old Testament. The name is associated with a region in the territory of the tribe of Manasseh, located near the ancient city of Dor on the Mediterranean coast of Canaan. The term "Naphoth" is often understood to mean "heights" or "pastures," suggesting a region characterized by elevated terrain or fertile lands suitable for grazing.

Biblical References:
Naphothdor is mentioned in the context of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 11:2, the region is noted as part of the territory that Joshua and the Israelites encountered during their conquest of Canaan. The Berean Standard Bible (BSB) states: "to the kings of the north in the hill country, in the Arabah south of Chinneroth, in the foothills, and in Naphothdor on the west."

Further, in Joshua 12:23, Naphothdor is listed among the territories of the defeated kings: "the king of Dor in Naphothdor, one; the king of Goiim in Gilgal, one." This passage highlights the strategic importance of the region and its inclusion in the comprehensive list of conquests under Joshua's leadership.

In Joshua 17:11, the allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh includes Naphothdor: "Within Issachar and Asher, Manasseh also had Beth-shean, Ibleam, and the people of Dor, Endor, Taanach, Megiddo, and their surrounding settlements—the three cities of Naphoth."

Historical and Geographical Context:
The city of Dor, located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, was an ancient Canaanite city known for its strategic maritime position and trade significance. The surrounding region, Naphothdor, would have been a valuable area for agriculture and settlement due to its fertile lands and proximity to the coast.

The historical context of Naphothdor is tied to the broader narrative of the Israelite conquest and settlement of Canaan. The region's mention in the biblical text underscores its importance in the territorial organization of the tribes of Israel, particularly for the tribe of Manasseh, which received portions of land both west and east of the Jordan River.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Naphothdor in the Bible serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The allocation of land, including regions like Naphothdor, symbolizes the realization of the covenantal promise of a homeland for the Israelites. It also reflects the divine orchestration of history, as God guided the Israelites in their conquest and settlement of the land He had promised to their forefathers.

The conquest and settlement narratives, including those involving Naphothdor, emphasize themes of obedience, divine assistance, and the importance of faithfulness to God's commands. The successful acquisition of territories like Naphothdor is portrayed as contingent upon the Israelites' adherence to the covenant and their reliance on God's guidance and strength.NAPHOTH-DOR

na'-foth-dor (Joshua 11:2 the Revised Version margin).

See DOR.

Naphothdor

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Naphoth (4 Occurrences)

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Naphoth-dor (1 Occurrence)
Naphoth-dor. Naphothdor, Naphoth-dor. Naphtali . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
NAPHOTH-DOR. ... Naphothdor, Naphoth-dor. Naphtali . Reference Bible.
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