Topical Encyclopedia Azmon is a geographical location mentioned in the Bible as part of the southern boundary of the land of Canaan, which was promised to the Israelites. It is referenced in the context of the delineation of the borders of the Promised Land, specifically in the books of Numbers and Joshua.Biblical References: 1. Numbers 34:4-5 : "Your border will turn from the south to the Ascent of Akrabbim, continue to Zin, and end at Kadesh-barnea. Then it will go to Hazar-addar and over to Azmon, where it will turn from Azmon to the Brook of Egypt and end at the Sea." 2. Joshua 15:4 : "It proceeded to Azmon, joined the Brook of Egypt, and ended at the Sea. This was their southern border." In these passages, Azmon is described as a point on the southern boundary of the land allocated to the tribes of Israel. It is situated between Hazar-addar and the Brook of Egypt, which is often identified with the Wadi el-Arish. The boundary then extends to the Mediterranean Sea, marking the southernmost limits of the territory. Geographical Significance: Azmon's exact location is not definitively known today, but it is generally considered to be in the Negev region, south of the modern-day state of Israel. The Negev is a desert area that played a significant role in the history of the Israelites, serving as a transitional zone between the settled lands of Canaan and the wilderness regions to the south. Historical and Theological Context: The mention of Azmon in the biblical text underscores the importance of clearly defined borders for the tribes of Israel as they settled in the Promised Land. The delineation of these borders was crucial for maintaining tribal territories and ensuring the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land. From a theological perspective, the boundaries, including Azmon, symbolize God's provision and faithfulness in granting the Israelites a land of their own. The precise description of these borders in Scripture reflects the divine order and the importance of land in the covenant relationship between God and His people. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: While there is limited archaeological evidence directly associated with Azmon, the broader region of the Negev has yielded numerous findings that illuminate the life and culture of ancient Israel. These include settlements, fortifications, and artifacts that provide insight into the challenges and adaptations of living in a desert environment. In summary, Azmon serves as a significant marker in the biblical narrative of the Israelites' journey to and settlement in the Promised Land. Its mention in the Scriptures highlights the importance of land, boundaries, and divine promise in the history and faith of the Israelite people. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 34:4,5And your border shall turn from the south to the ascent of Akrabbim, and pass on to Zin: and the going forth thereof shall be from the south to Kadeshbarnea, and shall go on to Hazaraddar, and pass on to Azmon: Nave's Topical Index Joshua 15:4 Library Hymns of Praise and Worship. Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |