Topical Encyclopedia Lebanon, a region known for its majestic mountain ranges, holds significant historical and biblical importance. The name "Lebanon" is derived from the Semitic root "lbn," meaning "white," likely referring to the snow-capped peaks of its mountains. In biblical times, Lebanon was renowned for its lush forests, particularly its cedars, which were highly prized for construction and religious purposes.Geographical Context Lebanon is situated to the north of Israel and west of Syria, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. The region is characterized by two parallel mountain ranges: the Lebanon Mountains to the west and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains to the east. The highest peak, Mount Lebanon, reaches an elevation of over 10,000 feet. These mountains have historically served as a natural barrier and a source of resources. Biblical References The Bible frequently mentions Lebanon, often highlighting its mountains and cedars. The cedars of Lebanon were used in the construction of significant biblical structures, including Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 5:6 , Solomon requests timber from Lebanon, saying, "So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say." The mountains of Lebanon are also depicted as a place of beauty and strength. In Psalm 29:5-6 , the psalmist writes, "The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox." Symbolism and Prophetic Imagery Lebanon's mountains and cedars are often used symbolically in the Bible to represent majesty, strength, and pride. The prophets frequently employed imagery of Lebanon to convey messages of judgment or restoration. In Isaiah 2:13 , the cedars of Lebanon are mentioned in the context of God's judgment against human pride: "against all the cedars of Lebanon, lofty and lifted up, against all the oaks of Bashan." Conversely, Lebanon is also used in prophetic visions of restoration and blessing. In Isaiah 35:2 , the prophet speaks of a future transformation: "It will bloom abundantly and even rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God." Cultural and Historical Significance Lebanon's mountains have been a source of cultural and economic wealth throughout history. The cedars were not only used in Israel but were also exported to other ancient civilizations, including Egypt and Mesopotamia. The Phoenicians, who inhabited the coastal regions of Lebanon, were renowned for their seafaring and trade, utilizing the timber from these mountains to build their ships. In biblical literature, Lebanon's mountains serve as a backdrop for various narratives and prophecies, reflecting the region's enduring significance in the biblical world. The imagery of Lebanon's mountains continues to evoke themes of divine majesty and the natural beauty of God's creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 2:2And Solomon told out three score and ten thousand men to bear burdens, and fourscore thousand to hew in the mountain, and three thousand and six hundred to oversee them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Come from Lebanon, My Spouse, Come from Lebanon, Come; Thou Shalt ... Fragrant Spices from the Mountains of Myrrh. "Thou Art all Fair ... The Building of the Golden House. Over the Mountains. "My Beloved is Mine, and I am His: He Feedeth ... The Holy Spirit. The Joy of Unbroken Communion A Discourse Song of Songs of Solomon His Unconscious Preparation for his Work Afraid of Giants Resources What is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the land of Canaan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Esther in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Lebanon: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lebanon of Great and Powerful Monarchs Lebanon: (Fragrance of) of the Graces of the Church Lebanon: (Glory of) of the Glory of the Church Lebanon: (Mourning of) of Deep Affliction Lebanon: (Shaking of Its Forests) Prodigious Growth of The Lebanon: "House of the Forest of" Lebanon: Bounded the Land of Canaan on the North Lebanon: Called: Mount Lebanon Lebanon: Called: That Goodly Mountain Lebanon: Called: The Mountains Lebanon: Celebrated For: Cedars Lebanon: Celebrated For: Flowers Lebanon: Celebrated For: Fragrance Lebanon: Celebrated For: Fragrance of Its Wines Lebanon: Celebrated For: Glorious Appearance Lebanon: Difficulties of Passing, Surmounted by Assyrian Army Lebanon: Fertility and Productiveness of Lebanon: Forests of, Infested With Wild Beasts Lebanon: Formerly Inhabited by the Hivites Lebanon: Furnished: Stones for Solomon's Temple Lebanon: Furnished: Wood for Second Temple Lebanon: Furnished: Wood for Solomon's Temple Lebanon: Great Part of, not Conquered by the Israelites Lebanon: Lofty Tops of, Covered With Snow Lebanon: Many Streams Came From Lebanon: Moses Anxious to Behold Lebanon: Northern Boundary of the Land of Canaan Lebanon: Solomon Built: Storehouses In Lebanon: Solomon Built: The House of the Forest of Lebanon: Solomon had Storage Cities In Related Terms |
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