Topical Bible: Valleys: Keziz

◄ Valleys: Keziz ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Hebrew • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The Valley of Keziz is a geographical location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua. This valley is part of the inheritance given to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The reference to the Valley of Keziz is found in Joshua 18:21, which lists the cities and regions allocated to Benjamin: "Now the cities of the tribe of Benjamin according to their clans were: Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz" .

Geographical Context

The Valley of Keziz, or Emek-keziz, is situated within the territory of Benjamin, which lies between the territories of Ephraim to the north and Judah to the south. The exact location of the Valley of Keziz is not definitively known today, as it is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text or in extrabiblical sources. However, its inclusion in the list of cities and regions suggests it was a notable landmark within the Benjaminite territory.

Historical and Cultural Significance

In the ancient Near Eastern context, valleys were often significant for their agricultural potential, providing fertile land for crops and pastures for livestock. The Valley of Keziz, like other valleys in the region, would have been an important resource for the tribe of Benjamin, contributing to their sustenance and economic stability.

The allocation of land, including valleys like Keziz, was a fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land among the tribes of Israel, as recorded in the Book of Joshua, underscores the importance of land inheritance in Israelite society. It reflects the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where the land serves as a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and provision.

Theological Implications

The mention of the Valley of Keziz, though brief, is part of the broader narrative of God's faithfulness in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. Each geographical detail in the tribal allotments serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises. The land, including its valleys, is not merely a physical inheritance but also a spiritual one, symbolizing the blessings and responsibilities of living in covenant with God.

In the biblical worldview, valleys often carry symbolic meanings. They can represent places of fertility and blessing, as well as challenges and trials. The Valley of Keziz, while not elaborated upon in Scripture, fits into this broader symbolic framework, reminding readers of the varied experiences of life under God's providence.

Conclusion

While the Valley of Keziz is not extensively detailed in the biblical text, its inclusion in the tribal allotments of Benjamin highlights its significance within the narrative of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people, providing them with a land of their own.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 18:21
Now the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin according to their families were Jericho, and Bethhoglah, and the valley of Keziz,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Strong's Hebrew

6010. emeq -- a vale
... valley. Word Origin from amoq Definition a vale NASB Word Usage Emek-keziz*
(1), Valley (3), valley (55), valleys (10). dale, vale ...
/hebrew/6010.htm - 6k