Topical Encyclopedia Asher, in the context of biblical geography, is often associated with the region surrounding the city of Shechem. While the tribe of Asher is more prominently known as one of the twelve tribes of Israel, the mention of Asher as a city or region near Shechem is less frequent and requires careful examination of biblical texts and historical context.Biblical References and Historical Context The city of Shechem holds significant importance in biblical history, serving as a central location in the narratives of the patriarchs and the early history of Israel. It is situated in the hill country of Ephraim, a region that was central to the life and worship of the Israelites. The association of Asher with Shechem is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, but it can be inferred through the broader understanding of tribal territories and historical settlements. In the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, the tribe of Asher was allocated a territory in the northern part of Canaan, along the Mediterranean coast. This territory is distinct from the central hill country where Shechem is located. However, the fluidity of tribal boundaries and the movement of people groups in ancient times could account for the presence of Asherites or settlements bearing the name Asher in regions outside their primary allotment. Cultural and Theological Significance The city of Shechem is a place of covenantal importance. It is where God first promised the land to Abraham (Genesis 12:6-7) and where Joshua later renewed the covenant with the Israelites (Joshua 24:1-25). The presence of a city or region named Asher near Shechem could symbolize the interconnectedness of the tribes and their shared heritage in the Promised Land. From a theological perspective, the mention of Asher in connection with Shechem may also reflect the unity and diversity within the people of Israel. Each tribe, while distinct in its inheritance and role, contributed to the collective identity and mission of the nation as God's chosen people. Archaeological Insights Archaeological findings in the region of Shechem have uncovered evidence of ancient settlements and fortifications, providing a glimpse into the historical landscape during the biblical period. While specific references to a city named Asher near Shechem are scarce, the archaeological record supports the existence of various settlements and tribal interactions in the area. Conclusion The concept of Asher as a city of Shechem invites further exploration into the complex tapestry of Israel's tribal history and geography. While the biblical text does not provide explicit details, the broader narrative of Israel's settlement and covenantal journey offers insights into the possible connections between Asher and Shechem. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 17:7And the coast of Manasseh was from Asher to Michmethah, that lies before Shechem; and the border went along on the right hand to the inhabitants of Entappuah. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 4:16 Library A Nation's Struggle for a Home and Freedom. Here Beginneth the Life of Isaac The Testament of Levi Concerning the Priesthood and Arrogance. Chapter xxxiv The Testament of Judah Concerning Fortitude, and Love of Money ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Joshua Chapter xxxv Chapter xlix Appendices Resources What happened to the lost tribes of Israel? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say that an increase in technology is a sign of the end times? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Asher: Son of Jacob, by Zilpah Asher: Son of Jacob, by Zilpah: Descendants of the Tribe of Asher: Aided in Hezekiah's Reformation the Tribe of Asher: Assisted Gideon Against the Midianites the Tribe of Asher: Bordered on the Sea the Tribe of Asher: Bounds of Their Inheritance the Tribe of Asher: Descended Form Jacob's Eighth Son the Tribe of Asher: did not Fully Drive out Canaanites the Tribe of Asher: Encamped Next To, and Under the Standard of Dan, North of The the Tribe of Asher: Families of the Tribe of Asher: Offering of, at the Dedication the Tribe of Asher: Officers Place Over, by Solomon the Tribe of Asher: On Ebal, Said Amen to the Curses of the Law the Tribe of Asher: Persons Selected From: To Divide the Land the Tribe of Asher: Persons Selected From: To Number the People the Tribe of Asher: Persons Selected From: To Spy out the Land the Tribe of Asher: Predictions Concerning the Tribe of Asher: Remarkable Persons of the Tribe of Asher: Reproved for not Aiding Against Sisera the Tribe of Asher: some of, at Coronation of David the Tribe of Asher: Strength of on Entering Canaan the Tribe of Asher: Strength of, on Leaving Egypt the Tribe of Asher: The Centre of the Fourth Division of Israel in Its Journeys Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families by John Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families by Moses Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families: Allotment To, of Land in Canaan Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families: Join Hezekiah Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families: Station of, in Camp Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families: Summoned by Gideon Tribe of Asher: Census of, by Families: Upbraided by Deborah Related Terms |
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