Topical Bible: Lebanon: Formerly Inhabited by the Hivites

◄ Lebanon: Formerly Inhabited by the Hivites ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Lebanon, a region known for its majestic cedar trees and mountainous terrain, holds significant historical and biblical importance. In ancient times, it was part of the land promised to the Israelites and was inhabited by various Canaanite tribes, including the Hivites.

Geographical Context

Lebanon is located in the eastern Mediterranean, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south. The region is characterized by its rugged mountains, fertile valleys, and the famous cedars of Lebanon, which were highly prized in the ancient world for their quality and durability.

Biblical References

The Bible frequently mentions Lebanon, often highlighting its natural resources and beauty. The cedars of Lebanon are particularly noted in Scripture. In 1 Kings 5:6, Solomon requests cedar wood from Lebanon for the construction of the Temple: "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. You know that we have no one so skilled in felling timber as the Sidonians."

Inhabitants: The Hivites

The Hivites were one of the Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land before the arrival of the Israelites. They are mentioned in several passages as part of the indigenous population that the Israelites encountered. In Joshua 11:3, the Hivites are listed among the groups that formed a coalition against Israel: "to the Canaanites in the east and west, to the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, and Jebusites in the hill country, and to the Hivites below Hermon in the land of Mizpah."

The Hivites are also noted in the context of the Gibeonite deception. In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites, who were Hivites, tricked Joshua into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land. Joshua 9:7 states, "The men of Israel replied to the Hivites, 'Perhaps you dwell near us. How can we make a treaty with you?'"

Historical and Theological Significance

Lebanon's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the region's importance in the ancient Near East. The land was part of the territory promised to the descendants of Abraham, as seen in Genesis 15:18-21, where God outlines the boundaries of the land given to Israel, which includes the territory of the Hivites.

Theologically, the interactions between the Israelites and the Hivites, as well as other Canaanite tribes, highlight themes of covenant faithfulness and the challenges of maintaining purity in worship and practice amidst surrounding pagan cultures. The presence of the Hivites and their eventual subjugation or assimilation into Israelite society serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Cultural and Economic Contributions

Lebanon's resources, particularly its cedar wood, played a crucial role in the economic and cultural exchanges of the ancient world. The cedars were used not only in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem but also in the building of palaces and ships, symbolizing strength and longevity. The region's strategic location along trade routes further contributed to its historical significance.

In summary, Lebanon, with its rich natural resources and complex history, remains a significant region in biblical history. Its former inhabitants, the Hivites, are a testament to the diverse cultures and peoples that interacted with the Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 3:3
Namely, five lords of the Philistines, and all the Canaanites, and the Sidonians, and the Hivites that dwelled in mount Lebanon, from mount Baalhermon to the entering in of Hamath.
Torrey's Topical Textbook