Topical Bible: Tirzah: A City of Canaan: Captured by Joshua

◄ Tirzah: A City of Canaan: Captured by Joshua ►

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

Topical Encyclopedia

Biblical References and Historical Context

Tirzah is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the land of Canaan. It is first noted in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. The city is listed among the territories captured by the Israelites as they took possession of the Promised Land. In Joshua 12:24, Tirzah is mentioned as one of the thirty-one kings defeated by Joshua: "the king of Tirzah, one; in all, thirty-one kings" .

Geographical and Archaeological Insights

Tirzah is believed to have been situated in the central region of Canaan, possibly in the area corresponding to modern-day Tell el-Far'ah (North), located northeast of Shechem. The city's strategic location would have made it an important site during the conquest and settlement periods. Archaeological excavations in the region have uncovered evidence of ancient occupation, including fortifications and artifacts that suggest a thriving community during the Bronze and Iron Ages.

Role in Israel's Monarchical Period

Tirzah gained prominence during the period of the divided monarchy in Israel. It became the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel under King Jeroboam I, following the division of the united monarchy after Solomon's reign. The city served as the royal residence for several kings, including Baasha, Elah, and Zimri. In 1 Kings 14:17, the city is mentioned in connection with Jeroboam's wife: "So Jeroboam’s wife arose and departed, and she came to Tirzah. As she was entering the threshold of the house, the child died" .

Tirzah's status as a capital city is further highlighted in 1 Kings 15:33 and 1 Kings 16:6-9, where it is described as the seat of power for the northern kingdom's rulers. However, its prominence was eventually overshadowed by the establishment of Samaria as the new capital by King Omri, as recorded in 1 Kings 16:23-24.

Symbolic and Theological Significance

In the Song of Solomon, Tirzah is used metaphorically to describe beauty and desirability: "You are as beautiful, my darling, as Tirzah, lovely as Jerusalem, majestic as an army with banners" (Song of Solomon 6:4). This poetic reference underscores the city's reputation and allure during its peak.

From a theological perspective, Tirzah's history reflects the broader narrative of Israel's relationship with God, marked by periods of faithfulness and rebellion. The city's capture by Joshua signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham. Its later role as a royal city in the northern kingdom illustrates the complexities of Israel's political and spiritual journey, including the consequences of division and idolatry.

Conclusion

Tirzah's account, woven into the fabric of Israel's history, offers insights into the dynamics of conquest, governance, and spiritual symbolism in the biblical narrative. Its mention in various contexts highlights its importance as both a physical location and a symbol of beauty and power in ancient Israel.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 12:24
The king of Tirzah, one: all the kings thirty and one.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... and played an important part in the history of the conquest of Canaan. ... this turned
out to be his youngest brother Othniel, who captured the city, and at ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... not only to capitals, like Jerusalem, Tirzah, and Samaria ... of Noah build a tower and
a city, He draws ... to confuse Jahveh with the idols of Canaan, and encouraged ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm