Topical Bible: Hamath: Inhabited by Canaanites

◄ Hamath: Inhabited by Canaanites ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Hamath is an ancient city mentioned frequently in the Bible, known for its strategic location and significance in biblical history. It was inhabited by the Canaanites and is often associated with the northern boundary of the land promised to the Israelites. The city is situated in what is now modern-day Syria, near the Orontes River, and has been a site of considerable archaeological and historical interest.

Biblical References

Hamath is first mentioned in the context of the territorial boundaries of the Promised Land. In Numbers 34:8, the Lord instructs Moses regarding the northern border of the land to be inherited by the Israelites: "From Mount Hor, draw a line to Lebo-hamath, and the border shall end at Zedad." This reference establishes Hamath as a significant landmark in defining the extent of Israel's inheritance.

In the time of King David, Hamath is noted for its relationship with Israel. 2 Samuel 8:9-10 records that Toi, king of Hamath, sent his son Joram to congratulate David on his victory over Hadadezer, king of Zobah, as Hadadezer had been at war with Toi. This indicates a diplomatic relationship between Hamath and Israel during David's reign.

The city is also mentioned in the context of Solomon's reign. In 1 Kings 8:65, during the dedication of the temple, Solomon held a feast that extended "from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of Egypt," again highlighting Hamath as a boundary marker of Israel's influence.

Prophetic Significance

The prophets frequently mention Hamath in their oracles against the nations. In Isaiah 10:9, the Lord, through the prophet, questions, "Is not Calno like Carchemish? Is not Hamath like Arpad? Is not Samaria like Damascus?" This rhetorical question underscores the impending judgment on these cities, including Hamath, for their pride and opposition to God's people.

Jeremiah 49:23-24 also speaks of Hamath in the context of judgment: "Concerning Damascus: Hamath and Arpad are put to shame, for they have heard bad news; they are disheartened. There is anxiety by the sea; it cannot be calmed." This passage reflects the fear and turmoil that would come upon these cities as a result of divine judgment.

Historical and Archaeological Context

Historically, Hamath was a significant city-state in the ancient Near East, known for its wealth and strategic importance. It was a center of trade and culture, often caught between the larger empires of Egypt, Assyria, and Babylon. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of its prominence, including inscriptions and artifacts that attest to its historical significance.

The city's mention in various ancient records outside the Bible corroborates its role as a key player in regional politics and trade. Its strategic location made it a valuable asset for any empire seeking control over the Levant.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Hamath serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use them to fulfill His purposes. The city's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the broader theme of God's judgment and mercy, as well as the fulfillment of His promises to Israel regarding the land.

In summary, Hamath is a city of considerable importance in the biblical narrative, serving as a geographical marker, a participant in Israel's history, and a subject of prophetic pronouncements. Its account is interwoven with the themes of divine judgment, diplomacy, and the unfolding of God's plan for His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 10:18
And the Arvadite, and the Zemarite, and the Hamathite: and afterward were the families of the Canaanites spread abroad.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

How Solomon Fortified the City of Jerusalem, and Built Great ...
... from the parts of Syria that are inhabited is this ... subdued to himself the remnant
of the Canaanites that had ... Lebanon, and as far as the city Hamath; and ordered ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 how solomon fortified.htm

The Antiquities of the Jews
... Posterity Of Noah Sent Out Colonies, And Inhabited The Whole ... Had Taken The City,
He Cast The Canaanites Out Of It ... Made A League With The King Of Hamath; And Was ...
//christianbookshelf.org/josephus/the antiquities of the jews/

Chapter x
... But the "Pathrusim" must have inhabited South or Upper ... of the Conquest that oftentimes
all Canaanites are simply ... with the ancient and well-known Hamath on the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter x.htm

Babylonia and Assyria
... They were inhabited by the Semitic tribe of the Kalda ... galzu had refused to listen
to the Canaanites when they ... after a blockade of three years; Hamath, which had ...
/.../early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter vi babylonia and assyria.htm

Egypt
... After that epoch the races which inhabited Egypt were ... and Babylonia were intriguing
with disaffected Canaanites, and the ... to have gone as far as Hamath; at all ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter v egypt.htm

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... deep valleys of the Taurus, was inhabited by peoples ... one of those hills which the
Canaanites were accustomed ... of walled towns, such as Hamath, Magato, Ashtaroth ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... had abandoned the positions they had formerly occupied on the banks of the Orontes
and the Litany, and had moved southwards, driving the Canaanites before them ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm