Topical Encyclopedia The region historically known as Judea, located in the southern part of the ancient Kingdom of Israel, is a land rich in biblical history and significance. Within this region, the territory of Ephraim holds a special place, as it was one of the prominent tribes of Israel. The towns of Ephraim, both ancient and modern, continue to be of interest to scholars, theologians, and believers who seek to understand the biblical narrative and its contemporary implications.Biblical Background Ephraim was one of the two sons of Joseph, the son of Jacob, and was blessed by Jacob to become a multitude of nations (Genesis 48:19). The tribe of Ephraim, along with Manasseh, formed the house of Joseph and was allotted a significant portion of land in the central highlands of Canaan (Joshua 16:5-10). This territory included important towns and cities that played crucial roles in the history of Israel. Key Towns in the Territory of Ephraim 1. Shiloh: Shiloh was a central city in the territory of Ephraim and served as the religious and political center of Israel before the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital. It was here that the Tabernacle was set up after the conquest of Canaan, and it remained for over three centuries (Joshua 18:1). Shiloh is significant as the place where Hannah prayed for a son, leading to the birth of Samuel, who would become a pivotal prophet and judge in Israel (1 Samuel 1:9-20). 2. Bethel: Although Bethel is often associated with the tribe of Benjamin, it was located near the border of Ephraim and played a significant role in the spiritual life of the nation. It was at Bethel that Jacob had his vision of the ladder reaching to heaven (Genesis 28:10-19). In the divided kingdom, Bethel became one of the centers of idol worship established by Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:28-29). 3. Shechem: Shechem is another significant city within the territory of Ephraim. It was here that Joshua renewed the covenant with the Israelites, urging them to serve the LORD faithfully (Joshua 24:1-25). Shechem also served as a city of refuge and was a Levitical city (Joshua 21:21). 4. Gibeah: Gibeah, located in the hill country of Ephraim, is noted for its association with the tragic account of the Levite's concubine, which led to a civil war within Israel (Judges 19-20). This event highlighted the moral and spiritual decline during the period of the judges. Modern Context In contemporary times, the region that once comprised the territory of Ephraim is part of the modern-day West Bank. The historical and archaeological sites in this area continue to attract interest from scholars and tourists alike. The modern towns and cities in this region often reflect the rich tapestry of history, culture, and religion that has characterized Judea for millennia. The legacy of the towns of Ephraim is preserved not only in the biblical narrative but also in the ongoing exploration and study of the land. These towns serve as a testament to the enduring significance of the biblical heritage and its influence on the faith and identity of people today. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 11:54Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went there to a country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Resources What year was Jesus Christ born? When was Jesus born? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Great Commission? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus lie to His brothers in John 7:8 10? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Judea: (The Southern Division of Palestine): The Term Applies to all of Palestine In Judea: It Applies to the Territory East of the Jordan River In Judea: It Extended from the Jordan River and the Dead Sea to the Mediterranean Sea Judea: Wilderness of Assigned to Benjamin Judea: Wilderness of Called Beth-Arabah Judea: Wilderness of John the Baptist Preaches In Modern Judea: A Mountainous District Modern Judea: Called: The Land of Judah Modern Judea: Comprised the Whole of the Ancient Kingdom of Judah Modern Judea: Jerusalem the Capital of Modern Judea: John the Baptist Preached In Modern Judea: One of the Divisions of the Holy Land Under the Romans Modern Judea: Our Lord: Born In Modern Judea: Our Lord: Frequently Visited Modern Judea: Our Lord: Often Left, to Escape Persecution Modern Judea: Our Lord: Tempted in the Wilderness of Modern Judea: Parts of, Desert Modern Judea: Several Christian Churches In Modern Judea: Towns of Arimathea Modern Judea: Towns of Azotus or Ashdod Modern Judea: Towns of Bethany Modern Judea: Towns of Bethlehem Modern Judea: Towns of Bethphage Modern Judea: Towns of Ephraim Modern Judea: Towns of Jericho Related Terms |
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