Topical Encyclopedia The Perizzites were one of the ancient Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land of Canaan during the time of the patriarchs. The name "Perizzite" is often associated with rural or village dwellers, suggesting that they lived in open country or unwalled towns. They are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the groups residing in the land promised to the descendants of Abraham.Biblical References and Context The Perizzites are first mentioned in the context of God's covenant with Abram (later Abraham). In Genesis 15:18-21 , God makes a solemn promise to Abram, stating, "On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, 'To your descendants I have given this land—from the river of Egypt to the great River Euphrates—the land of the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.'" This passage underscores the inclusion of the Perizzite territory within the expansive land grant promised to Abraham's offspring. The Perizzites are also mentioned in Genesis 13:7 , where a conflict arises between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot: "And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. At that time the Canaanites and Perizzites were dwelling in the land." This indicates that the Perizzites were already established in the region during Abram's sojourn in Canaan. Historical and Geographical Considerations The exact geographical boundaries of the Perizzite territory are not explicitly detailed in the biblical text. However, their presence in the central hill country of Canaan is implied through various scriptural references. The Perizzites, along with other Canaanite tribes, occupied a land characterized by fertile valleys and strategic locations, which later became significant for the Israelites. Conquest and Inheritance The narrative of the Israelite conquest of Canaan, as recorded in the Book of Joshua, includes the Perizzites among the peoples to be displaced. In Joshua 3:10 , Joshua declares, "This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that He will surely drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites." The Perizzites, therefore, were part of the divine mandate given to the Israelites to possess the land. The fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land is further emphasized in the distribution of territories among the tribes of Israel. The Perizzite lands, along with those of other Canaanite tribes, were apportioned to the Israelites as part of their inheritance, as seen in the detailed allotments described in the latter chapters of Joshua. Cultural and Theological Significance The presence of the Perizzites in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the historical and theological unfolding of God's promises to the patriarchs. The inclusion of their territory in the divine covenant with Abraham highlights the comprehensive nature of God's plan for His chosen people. The eventual conquest and settlement of the land by the Israelites underscore the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises, despite the challenges and opposition faced by His people. In summary, the Perizzites, as inhabitants of the land promised to Abraham, play a significant role in the biblical account of God's covenantal relationship with Israel. Their territory, along with that of other Canaanite tribes, became part of the inheritance of the Israelites, marking a pivotal moment in the unfolding of redemptive history. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 15:20And the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Rephaims, Nave's Topical Index Exodus 3:8 Exodus 23:23 Library Canaan Chapter xxxiv Resources What was the significance of the Jordan crossing? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Canaanites? | GotQuestions.org Why was Israel called the land of milk and honey? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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