Azmaveth: A Village of Judah or Benjamin
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Azmaveth is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, associated with the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. The name "Azmaveth" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "strong as death" or "death is strong." This village holds historical and biblical significance, appearing in various contexts within the Scriptures.

Biblical References:

1. Tribal Allotment:
Azmaveth is identified as part of the tribal allotment of Benjamin. In the book of Nehemiah, it is listed among the places where the people of Benjamin settled after the return from the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah 12:29 mentions, "from Beth Gilgal, and from the fields of Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built villages for themselves all around Jerusalem."

2. Return from Exile:
The village is also noted in the context of the return from Babylonian captivity. In Ezra 2:24 and Nehemiah 7:28, the descendants of Azmaveth are listed among those who returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to his own town. This highlights the continuity of the community and its reestablishment in the land after the exile.

3. Military Context:
Azmaveth is mentioned in relation to King David's mighty men. In 1 Chronicles 12:3, Azmaveth is listed as one of the warriors who joined David at Ziklag, indicating the presence of a notable figure from this village who played a role in David's rise to power.

Historical and Archaeological Insights:

While the exact location of Azmaveth is not definitively identified in modern times, it is generally believed to have been situated near the region of Benjamin, close to Jerusalem. Some scholars suggest it may correspond to the modern site of Hizmeh, northeast of Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence in the area, though limited, supports the existence of ancient settlements that align with biblical descriptions.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

Azmaveth, as a village within the tribal lands of Benjamin, reflects the broader narrative of Israel's history, particularly the themes of exile and return. The mention of Azmaveth in the context of the return from Babylonian captivity underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to restore His people to their land. The inclusion of Azmaveth's descendants in the genealogical records of Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the importance of maintaining tribal and familial identities within the covenant community.

Furthermore, the association of Azmaveth with David's mighty men illustrates the village's contribution to the establishment of the Davidic kingdom, a central theme in the biblical narrative that points to the messianic hope fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

In summary, Azmaveth serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan as recorded in the Scriptures.
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Ezra 2:24
The children of Azmaveth, forty and two.
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Nehemiah 12:29
Also from the house of Gilgal, and out of the fields of Geba and Azmaveth: for the singers had built them villages round about Jerusalem.
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Resources
Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.org

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Azmaveth: A Descendant of Jonathan
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