Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Ra'math-le'hi, meaning "the height of Lehi" or "the hill of the jawbone," is a significant location mentioned in the biblical narrative of Samson, a judge of Israel. The name is derived from the Hebrew words "ramath," meaning "height" or "hill," and "lehi," meaning "jawbone." Biblical References: Ra'math-le'hi is primarily referenced in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 15:15-17. The passage recounts the account of Samson's victory over the Philistines using the jawbone of a donkey. The Berean Standard Bible states: > "He found the fresh jawbone of a donkey, reached out his hand and took it, and struck down a thousand men. Then Samson said: 'With the jawbone of a donkey I have piled them into heaps. With the jawbone of a donkey I have slain a thousand men.' When Samson had finished speaking, he cast the jawbone from his hand; and he named that place Ramath-lehi." (Judges 15:15-17) Historical and Cultural Context: The event at Ra'math-le'hi occurs during a period of intense conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines. Samson, known for his extraordinary strength, was raised up by God as a judge to deliver Israel from Philistine oppression. The use of a donkey's jawbone as a weapon underscores the miraculous nature of Samson's victory, as it was an unconventional and seemingly inadequate tool for battle. Theological Significance: Ra'math-le'hi serves as a testament to God's empowerment of Samson, highlighting the theme of divine intervention and strength in weakness. The victory at this site is a reminder of God's sovereignty and ability to deliver His people through unexpected means. Samson's triumph with the jawbone symbolizes the power of God working through an individual who is consecrated to His purposes, despite personal flaws and failures. Symbolism and Interpretation: The jawbone, a symbol of death and decay, becomes an instrument of deliverance in the hands of Samson. This transformation from a symbol of death to a tool of victory can be seen as a foreshadowing of God's redemptive work throughout Scripture, where He often uses the weak and despised things of the world to accomplish His purposes. Location and Geography: The exact geographical location of Ra'math-le'hi is not definitively known, but it is believed to be in the region of Judah, near the territory of the Philistines. The name "Lehi" itself is associated with the area, though its precise identification remains uncertain. Legacy and Influence: Ra'math-le'hi is remembered as a place of divine deliverance and a demonstration of God's power through Samson. It serves as an enduring symbol of faith and reliance on God's strength, encouraging believers to trust in God's provision and might, even in seemingly insurmountable circumstances. Concordance Ra'math-le'hi (1 Occurrence)Judges 15:17 Thesaurus Ra'math-le'hi (1 Occurrence)Ra'math-le'hi. Ramath-lehi, Ra'math-le'hi. Ramath-mispeh . Multi-Version Concordance Ra'math-le'hi (1 Occurrence). Judges 15:17 ... /r/ra'math-le'hi.htm - 6k Ramath-lehi (1 Occurrence) Ramathlehi (1 Occurrence) Ramath-mispeh (1 Occurrence) Finished (157 Occurrences) Threw (133 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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