Topical Encyclopedia Horonaim is a town mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Moabite territory. The name "Horonaim" is believed to mean "two caves" or "double cave," suggesting a geographical feature that may have characterized the area. This town is primarily noted in the prophetic literature concerning the judgment and downfall of Moab, a nation often in conflict with Israel.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 15:5 (BSB): "My heart cries out for Moab; her fugitives flee as far as Zoar, as far as Eglath-shelishiyah. For at the Ascent of Luhith they go up weeping; surely on the road to Horonaim they raise a cry of destruction." This passage is part of Isaiah's oracle against Moab, depicting the distress and calamity that would befall the Moabites. Horonaim is mentioned as a place associated with the cries of destruction, indicating its involvement in the broader judgment against Moab. 2. Jeremiah 48:3-5 (BSB): "A voice cries out from Horonaim: 'Devastation and great destruction!' Moab will be shattered; her little ones will cry out. For on the Ascent to Luhith they will ascend with weeping; surely on the descent to Horonaim they will hear cries of destruction." Jeremiah's prophecy echoes the themes found in Isaiah, emphasizing the impending doom and the emotional turmoil experienced by the Moabites. Horonaim is depicted as a significant location in the narrative of Moab's downfall. 3. Jeremiah 48:34 (BSB): "From the outcry at Heshbon to Elealeh and Jahaz, they have raised their voice, from Zoar to Horonaim, a three-year-old heifer; for even the waters of Nimrim have dried up." This verse further illustrates the widespread devastation across Moab, with Horonaim again being a focal point of lamentation and destruction. Historical and Geographical Context: Horonaim's exact location remains uncertain, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the southern part of Moab, possibly near the Arnon River. The town's mention alongside other Moabite cities like Zoar and Luhith suggests its importance within the region. The references to Horonaim in the context of destruction and lamentation highlight its role in the prophetic declarations against Moab, serving as a symbol of the nation's impending judgment. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Horonaim in the prophetic books underscores the theme of divine judgment against nations that opposed Israel and defied God's commands. The prophecies concerning Moab, including those involving Horonaim, serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. They illustrate the consequences of pride and idolatry, common themes in the prophetic literature, and highlight the broader narrative of God's dealings with the nations surrounding Israel. Horonaim, as part of the Moabite narrative, reflects the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate authority of God over all nations. The prophetic declarations serve as both a warning and a call to repentance, emphasizing the need for humility and obedience to God's will. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 15:5My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives shall flee to Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 48:3,5,34 Strong's Hebrew 2773. Choronayim -- "two hollows," a place in Moab... Horonaim. Dual of a derivative from chowr; double cave-town; Choronajim, a place in Moab -- Horonaim. see HEBREW chowr. 2772, 2773. Choronayim. 2774 . ... /hebrew/2773.htm - 6k Library Appendices Resources Who were the Moabites? | GotQuestions.orgWho were Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |