Sabeans: Giants Among
Jump to: Nave'sLibrarySubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The Sabeans, mentioned in the Bible, are often associated with the region of Sheba, which is believed to be in the southern Arabian Peninsula, possibly modern-day Yemen. They are primarily known for their wealth and trade, particularly in spices, gold, and precious stones. However, there is a lesser-known aspect of the Sabeans that involves the notion of giants among them, which has intrigued scholars and theologians.

Biblical References

The most direct reference to the Sabeans in the Bible is found in the Book of Job. In Job 1:15 , it is recorded that the Sabeans attacked and took away Job's oxen and donkeys, killing the servants with the sword. This account highlights their reputation as fierce and formidable warriors. While this passage does not explicitly mention giants, the implication of their might and strength could be interpreted as a reference to their imposing stature or prowess.

Historical and Cultural Context

The idea of giants in ancient cultures is not unique to the Sabeans. Many ancient Near Eastern texts and traditions speak of giant races or individuals, often attributing them with extraordinary strength and abilities. In the context of the Sabeans, their depiction as powerful and fearsome could be metaphorically linked to the concept of giants, emphasizing their dominance and influence in the region.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the mention of giants in the Bible often serves as a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God. In Genesis 6:4 , the Nephilim are described as "mighty men who were of old, men of renown." While the Sabeans are not directly identified with the Nephilim, the association of giants with rebellion and divine judgment could provide a framework for understanding the Sabeans' role in the biblical narrative.

Interpretations and Speculations

Some conservative scholars suggest that the Sabeans' portrayal as giants could be symbolic, representing their significant impact on the ancient world through trade and military prowess. Others propose that the term "giants" might have been used metaphorically to describe their influence and the fear they instilled in others, rather than their physical stature.

Conclusion

The concept of giants among the Sabeans remains a topic of interest and debate among biblical scholars. While the Bible does not provide explicit details about giants within the Sabean culture, the association of the Sabeans with strength and power invites further exploration of their role in biblical history and their symbolic representation as giants.
Nave's Topical Index
Isaiah 45:14
Thus said the LORD, The labor of Egypt, and merchandise of Ethiopia and of the Sabeans, men of stature, shall come over to you, and they shall be yours: they shall come after you; in chains they shall come over, and they shall fall down to you, they shall make supplication to you, saying, Surely God is in you; and there is none else, there is no God.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

From the Flood to Abraham
... to represent the tints which the Sabeans thought appropriate to ... to this legend a
race of giants tried to ... have for us several valuable lessons, among which the ...
/.../tidwell/the bible period by period/chapter iii from the flood.htm

Resources
Who were the Sabeans? | GotQuestions.org

Miscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.org

Old Testament Groups ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Sabeans: A People Who Invaded the Land of Uz
Top of Page
Top of Page