Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Timnathheres, also known as Timnath-serah, is a significant location in biblical history, particularly in the context of the life and death of Joshua, the renowned leader of the Israelites who succeeded Moses. This entry explores the biblical references and historical significance of Timnathheres. Biblical References: Timnathheres is mentioned in the Book of Joshua as the inheritance given to Joshua in the land of Ephraim. According to Joshua 19:49-50 , "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." The name Timnathheres is used in Judges 2:9 , which states, "And they buried him in the territory of his inheritance in Timnath-heres, in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash." This passage refers to the burial of Joshua, indicating the city's importance as his final resting place. Historical and Geographical Context: Timnathheres is located in the hill country of Ephraim, a region known for its rugged terrain and strategic significance. The city was situated north of Mount Gaash, which further emphasizes its elevated position. The allocation of this city to Joshua highlights his esteemed status among the Israelites and the fulfillment of God's promise to him. The dual naming of the city as Timnath-serah and Timnathheres has been a subject of scholarly discussion. Some suggest that "Timnath-serah" means "portion of abundance," reflecting the city's prosperity and significance. "Timnathheres," on the other hand, is thought to mean "portion of the sun," possibly indicating a cultural or religious significance tied to solar worship or symbolism. Theological Significance: Timnathheres holds theological importance as the inheritance of Joshua, a central figure in the narrative of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. Joshua's leadership is characterized by faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, and his receipt of Timnathheres serves as a testament to his role in fulfilling God's promises to the Israelites. The burial of Joshua in Timnathheres marks the end of an era for the Israelites. His death signifies the transition from the conquest of the Promised Land to the period of the Judges, a time marked by cycles of faithfulness and apostasy among the Israelites. The location of his burial serves as a reminder of his leadership and the covenantal faithfulness required of God's people. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Timnathheres has been debated, some scholars and archaeologists have identified potential sites in the modern-day West Bank region. Excavations in these areas have sought to uncover artifacts and structures that might correspond to the biblical city, providing insights into the historical context of Joshua's time. Conclusion: Timnathheres, as the inheritance and burial site of Joshua, holds a place of honor in biblical history. Its mention in the Scriptures underscores the fulfillment of God's promises and the legacy of Joshua's leadership. The city's geographical and theological significance continues to be a subject of interest for biblical scholars and archaeologists alike. Smith's Bible Dictionary Timnathheres(portion of the sun) the name under which the city and burial-place of Joshua, previously called Timnath-serah is mentioned in (Judges 2:9) [TIMNATH-GERAH] Easton's Bible Dictionary Portion of the sun, where Joshua was buried (Judges 2:9). It was "in the mount of Ephraim, in the north side of the hill Gaash," 10 miles south-west of Shechem. The same as the following. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TIMNATH-HEREStim-nath-he'rez (timnath cherec, "portion of the sun"; Codex Vaticanus Thamnathares; Codex Alexandrinus Thamnathar; heos): This is the form of the name given to Joshua's property and place of burial in Judges 2:9. The name in Joshua 19:50; Joshua 24:30 is Timnath-serah. "Serah" simply reverses the order of the letters in "Heres." Scholars are divided in opinion as to which form is correct. It is possible that the change from Heres to Serah may have been deliberate, in order to avoid a form which might savor of idolatry-sun-worship. The Jews and Samaritans hold that Heres is the original form. Thesaurus Timnathheres (1 Occurrence)... The Jews and Samaritans hold that Heres is the original form. W. Ewing. Multi-Version Concordance Timnathheres (1 Occurrence). Judges ... /t/timnathheres.htm - 7k Timnath-heres (1 Occurrence) Timnathah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Timnathheres (1 Occurrence)Judges 2:9 Subtopics Related Terms |