Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Timnath-heres, also known as Timnath-serah, is a significant location in biblical history, primarily noted as the inheritance and burial site of Joshua, the son of Nun, who succeeded Moses as the leader of the Israelites. This entry explores the biblical references and historical context of Timnath-heres, drawing from scriptural accounts and traditional interpretations. Biblical References: Timnath-heres is mentioned in the Book of Joshua and the Book of Judges. In Joshua 19:49-50 , it is recorded: "When they had finished distributing the land into its territories, the Israelites gave Joshua son of Nun an inheritance among them, as the LORD had commanded. They gave him the city he asked for—Timnath-serah in the hill country of Ephraim. And he built up the city and settled there." This passage highlights the allocation of Timnath-heres to Joshua as a reward for his faithful service and leadership. In Judges 2:9 , the location is referred to as Timnath-heres: "And they buried him in the territory of his inheritance at Timnath-heres in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash." This verse confirms the site as Joshua's final resting place, emphasizing its importance as a memorial to his life and leadership. Historical and Geographical Context: Timnath-heres is situated in the hill country of Ephraim, a region known for its rugged terrain and strategic significance. The name "Timnath-heres" is often interpreted to mean "portion of the sun," which some scholars suggest may reflect the site's elevation and exposure to sunlight. The alternative name, "Timnath-serah," is thought to mean "abundant portion," possibly indicating the fertility or desirability of the land. The location of Timnath-heres is traditionally identified with the modern archaeological site of Khirbet Tibnah, although exact identification remains a subject of scholarly debate. The site is characterized by its ancient ruins, which include remnants of fortifications and dwellings, suggesting a settlement of considerable size and importance during the period of the Judges. Theological Significance: Timnath-heres holds theological significance as the inheritance of Joshua, a central figure in the narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. Joshua's leadership is marked by his unwavering faith and obedience to God, qualities that are exemplified in his successful military campaigns and the subsequent distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. The allocation of Timnath-heres to Joshua serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. It also underscores the biblical principle of reward for faithful service, as Joshua receives a tangible inheritance in the land he helped to conquer. Cultural and Traditional Insights: In Jewish tradition, Timnath-heres is revered as a site of pilgrimage, with visitors paying homage to Joshua's legacy. The location is often associated with themes of leadership, faith, and divine providence, serving as an enduring symbol of the covenant between God and Israel. The dual naming of the site as both Timnath-heres and Timnath-serah reflects the rich tapestry of biblical history, where places often bear multiple names that capture different aspects of their significance. This duality invites reflection on the multifaceted nature of God's interactions with His people and the layers of meaning embedded in the biblical narrative. Concordance Tim'nath-he'res (1 Occurrence)Judges 2:9 Thesaurus Tim'nath-he'res (1 Occurrence)Tim'nath-he'res. Timnath-heres, Tim'nath-he'res. Timnathserah . Multi-Version Concordance Tim'nath-he'res (1 Occurrence). Judges ... /t/tim'nath-he'res.htm - 6k Timnathserah (2 Occurrences) Timnath-heres (1 Occurrence) Bounds (21 Occurrences) Ga'ash (4 Occurrences) E'phraim (146 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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