Topical Bible: Valleys: Called: Vales

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical literature, valleys, also referred to as vales, hold significant geographical, historical, and spiritual importance. They are often depicted as places of fertility and abundance, as well as sites of battles and divine encounters. The term "vale" is an older English word synonymous with "valley," and both are used interchangeably in various translations of the Bible.

Geographical Significance:

Valleys in the biblical context are typically low-lying areas between hills or mountains. They are often fertile and well-watered, making them ideal for agriculture and settlement. The Valley of Jezreel, for example, is one of the most fertile regions in Israel and has been a crucial agricultural area since ancient times.

Historical Context:

Valleys have been the setting for numerous historical events recorded in the Bible. The Valley of Elah is famously known as the site where David defeated Goliath (1 Samuel 17:2-3). This valley served as a battleground between the Israelites and the Philistines, highlighting its strategic importance.

Another significant valley is the Valley of Achor, which became a symbol of trouble and judgment due to Achan's sin (Joshua 7:24-26). However, it is also mentioned as a place of hope and restoration in the prophetic literature (Hosea 2:15).

Spiritual Symbolism:

Valleys often symbolize trials, challenges, and low points in life. Psalm 23:4 famously mentions, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." Here, the valley represents a place of danger and fear, yet it is also a place where God's presence and protection are profoundly experienced.

In the prophetic books, valleys can symbolize judgment and decision. The Valley of Jehoshaphat, mentioned in Joel 3:2 , is described as a place where God will gather the nations for judgment. This imagery underscores the valley as a setting for divine intervention and justice.

Valleys as Places of Refuge and Blessing:

Despite their association with trials, valleys are also depicted as places of refuge and blessing. The Valley of Beracah, meaning "Valley of Blessing," is where Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah praised God after a miraculous victory over their enemies (2 Chronicles 20:26). This event highlights the valley as a place of divine deliverance and thanksgiving.

Conclusion:

Valleys, or vales, in the Bible are rich in meaning and significance. They serve as settings for pivotal events, symbols of spiritual truths, and reminders of God's presence in both the trials and blessings of life. Through the diverse narratives and imagery associated with valleys, the Bible conveys profound lessons about faith, perseverance, and divine providence.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 1:7
Turn you, and take your journey, and go to the mount of the Amorites, and to all the places near thereunto, in the plain, in the hills, and in the vale, and in the south, and by the sea side, to the land of the Canaanites, and to Lebanon, to the great river, the river Euphrates.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 10:40
So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the vale, and of the springs, and all their kings: he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs.
... or wandering farmers of the fruitful valleys, was Abram ... ever marching to their
fulfillment, Jehovah called to Abram ... and happy man in the luxuriant vales of Canaan ...
/.../headley/half hours in bible lands volume 2/scenes in the lives of.htm

The Bohemian Brethern and the Waldenses.
... They called themselves originally the Poor of Lyons, who by ... fierce persecutions in
France and the valleys of Piedmont ... The vales redoubled to the hills, and they. ...
/.../ 72 the bohemian brethern.htm

The Nativity
... Canals, and fountains, and delicious vales,. ... Urge down the valleys your
impetuous course! ... Who called them out of deep primeval night; ...
/.../translations from the french of madame de la mothe guion/the nativity.htm

Mountains Round Mount Zion
... the south, another hill, the so-called 'Hill of ... changes the face of nature; makes
valleys where there ... mountains, and mountains where there were vales, and open ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/mountains round mount zion.htm

A Canticle of Love
... It was washing day, and I was busy at my work, when Mother Agnes of Jesus, then
Prioress, called me aside and read me a letter from a young Seminarist, in ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/martin/the story of a soul/chapter xi a canticle of.htm