Netoph'ah is a biblical town mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily recognized for its association with the tribe of Judah. It is referenced in several genealogical and geographical contexts, highlighting its significance in the post-exilic period and its contribution to the community of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Genealogical Significance:
Netoph'ah is first mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. In 1 Chronicles 2:54, the descendants of Salma are noted to include the Netophathites: "The descendants of Salma: Bethlehem, the Netophathites, Atroth-beth-joab, half the Manahathites, the Zorites." This indicates that Netoph'ah was closely linked with Bethlehem and other notable families within Judah.

2. Military Contributions:
The town is also noted for its contribution to King David's mighty men. In 2 Samuel 23:28-29, two of David's warriors, Maharai and Heleb, are identified as Netophathites: "Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite, Heleb the son of Baanah the Netophathite." This highlights the town's role in providing valiant soldiers for Israel's military endeavors.

3. Post-Exilic Community:
After the Babylonian exile, Netoph'ah is mentioned in the context of the returnees who resettled in Judah. In Ezra 2:22 and Nehemiah 7:26, the men of Netoph'ah are listed among those who returned with Zerubbabel: "The men of Netophah, 56." This indicates the town's continued existence and its inhabitants' dedication to restoring their homeland.

4. Religious Contributions:
The town is also noted for its religious contributions. In Nehemiah 12:28, the singers from the villages around Jerusalem, including Netoph'ah, are mentioned as participating in the dedication of the wall: "The singers were also assembled from the region around Jerusalem, from the villages of the Netophathites." This suggests that Netoph'ah had a role in the religious life of the post-exilic community.

Geographical Context:

Netoph'ah is believed to have been located near Bethlehem, within the tribal territory of Judah. While its exact location remains uncertain, it is generally thought to have been situated in the hill country of Judah, contributing to the agricultural and military strength of the region.

Cultural and Historical Insights:

The references to Netoph'ah in the biblical text provide insights into the social and cultural dynamics of ancient Israel. The town's association with notable families, its contribution to military and religious life, and its resilience in the face of exile and return all underscore its importance in the narrative of Israel's history.

Netoph'ah serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the smaller towns and communities that played vital roles in the unfolding account of God's people, contributing to the spiritual and communal fabric of the nation of Israel.Netoph'ah (4 Occurrences)

2 Samuel 23:28
Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite;
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 23:29
Heleb the son of Baanah the Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 11:30
Mahrai the Netophathite, Heled the son of Baanah the Netophathite;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 27:13
The tenth captain for the tenth month was Mahrai, the Netophathite, of the Zerahites; and in his course were twenty and four thousand.
(See RSV)

Netoph'ah (4 Occurrences)
Netoph'ah. Neto'phah, Netoph'ah. Netophas . Multi-Version Concordance
Netoph'ah (4 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 23:28 Zalmon the Ahohite ...
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Netophas

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Neto'phah (2 Occurrences)
Neto'phah. Netophah, Neto'phah. Netoph'ah . Multi-Version Concordance
Neto'phah (2 Occurrences). ... (See RSV). Netophah, Neto'phah. Netoph'ah . Reference
/n/neto'phah.htm - 6k

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