Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Obeth is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It is one of the many encampments of the Israelites as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land. The name "Obeth" is derived from the Hebrew word "אוֹבֹת" (Ovoth), which is often translated as "waterskins" or "bottles," possibly indicating a place where water was stored or found. Biblical References: The primary reference to Obeth is found in the Book of Numbers, which details the stages of the Israelites' journey: · Numbers 21:10-11 : "Then the Israelites set out and camped at Oboth. They journeyed from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness opposite Moab toward the sunrise." This passage situates Obeth as a significant stop during the Israelites' travels. It is located in the wilderness region, opposite Moab, indicating its geographical importance as a waypoint in the journey eastward. Historical and Geographical Context: Obeth is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' 40-year sojourn in the wilderness, a period marked by divine guidance and provision. The encampment at Obeth follows the Israelites' victory over the Canaanite king of Arad and precedes their approach to the territory of Moab. The exact location of Obeth is not definitively known today, but it is generally considered to be in the region east of the Dead Sea, near the border of ancient Moab. Theological Significance: The mention of Obeth, like other encampments, underscores the theme of God's faithfulness and provision for His people. Each stop along the journey represents a step in the fulfillment of God's promise to bring the Israelites to a land flowing with milk and honey. The journey through places like Obeth serves as a reminder of the trials and testing faced by the Israelites, as well as the lessons of trust and obedience they were to learn. Cultural and Symbolic Insights: The name "Obeth," meaning "waterskins" or "bottles," may symbolize the provision of water, a critical resource in the arid wilderness. This aligns with the broader biblical motif of God providing for the physical needs of His people, as seen in the miraculous provision of manna and water from the rock. The encampment at Obeth, therefore, can be seen as a testament to God's sustaining grace. Conclusion: While Obeth is a brief mention in the biblical narrative, it plays a role in the larger account of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. It serves as a geographical marker of their progress and a spiritual reminder of God's ongoing care and guidance. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia OBETHo'-beth (Obeth; Codex Vaticanus Ouben): One of those who went up with Ezra (1 Esdras 8:32) = "Ebed" of Ezra 8:6. Thesaurus Obeth... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia OBETH. o'-beth (Obeth; Codex Vaticanus Ouben): One of those who went up with Ezra (1 Esdras 8:32) = "Ebed" of Ezra 8:6. ... /o/obeth.htm - 6k Obelisks (1 Occurrence) Ebed (7 Occurrences) Obey (219 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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