Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context:The term "Shibboleth" originates from a biblical account found in the Book of Judges. It is a Hebrew word that means "ear of grain" or "stream." However, its significance extends beyond its literal meaning, as it became a linguistic test used to distinguish between different groups of people. Biblical Account: The primary scripture concerning "Shibboleth" is found in Judges 12:4-6. During a conflict between the Gileadites, led by Jephthah, and the Ephraimites, a linguistic test was employed to identify and defeat the fleeing Ephraimites. The Gileadites controlled the fords of the Jordan River, and when an Ephraimite fugitive attempted to cross, he was asked to say the word "Shibboleth." The Ephraimites, unable to pronounce it correctly, would say "Sibboleth," thus revealing their identity. As a result, the Gileadites seized and killed them at the fords. Scripture Reference: Judges 12:4-6 : "Jephthah then gathered all the men of Gilead and fought against Ephraim. And the men of Gilead struck them down because they had said, 'You Gileadites are fugitives in Ephraim, living in Ephraim and Manasseh.' The Gileadites captured the fords of the Jordan leading to Ephraim, and whenever a fugitive from Ephraim would say, 'Let me cross over,' the men of Gilead would ask him, 'Are you an Ephraimite?' If he answered, 'No,' they would tell him, 'Please say Shibboleth.' If he said, 'Sibboleth,' because he could not pronounce it correctly, they seized him and killed him at the fords of the Jordan. In all, 42,000 Ephraimites were killed at that time." Significance: The use of "Shibboleth" in this context highlights the importance of language and dialect as markers of identity. It underscores the divisions and hostilities that can arise even among closely related groups, such as the tribes of Israel. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of internal strife and the tragic consequences of civil discord. Cultural and Theological Implications: In a broader sense, "Shibboleth" has come to represent any custom, tradition, or phrase that distinguishes one group of people from another. It is often used metaphorically to describe tests or standards that determine inclusion or exclusion within a community. Theologically, the account of Shibboleth can be seen as a reflection on the themes of judgment, identity, and the power of words. Historical and Modern Usage: Historically, the term "Shibboleth" has been used in various contexts to denote linguistic or cultural tests. In modern times, it continues to be a symbol of division and the challenges of communication and understanding between different groups. The account serves as a reminder of the need for unity and reconciliation within the body of believers, as well as the broader human community. Nave's Topical Index Judges 12:6Then said they to him, Say now Shibboleth: and he said Sibboleth: for he could not frame to pronounce it right. Then they took him, and slew him at the passages of Jordan: and there fell at that time of the Ephraimites forty and two thousand. Nave's Topical Index Library Original Sin The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment: Resources Who was Jephthah? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of shibboleth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Did Jephthah sacrifice his daughter to the Lord? | GotQuestions.org Shibboleth: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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