Topical Encyclopedia Definition and General Description:Upland refers to elevated land or regions that are higher than the surrounding terrain. In biblical contexts, uplands are often associated with hills, mountains, and elevated plateaus. These areas are significant in the biblical narrative for their geographical, agricultural, and spiritual implications. Biblical References and Significance: 1. Geographical Context: The uplands of ancient Israel and surrounding regions played a crucial role in the daily life and history of the people. These areas were often more fertile and suitable for agriculture compared to the lowlands, which could be marshy or prone to flooding. The uplands provided a strategic advantage for defense and were often the sites of cities and fortresses. 2. Agricultural Importance: The uplands were vital for agriculture, particularly for growing crops like olives, grapes, and figs, which thrive in well-drained, elevated soils. The Bible frequently mentions the bounty of the land, which includes the produce of the uplands. For example, Deuteronomy 8:7-8 describes the Promised Land as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey." 3. Spiritual and Symbolic Significance: Uplands often hold spiritual significance in the Bible. Mountains and hills are frequently depicted as places of divine encounter and revelation. For instance, Moses received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, and Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. These elevated places symbolize closeness to God and are often settings for pivotal spiritual events. 4. Historical and Cultural Context: Throughout biblical history, uplands were often the sites of significant events and settlements. Cities like Jerusalem, which is situated on a series of hills, played central roles in the religious and political life of Israel. The strategic importance of upland cities is evident in various military campaigns and narratives throughout the Old Testament. 5. Prophetic and Eschatological Imagery: The prophets often used the imagery of mountains and uplands to convey messages of hope and restoration. Isaiah 2:2 prophesies, "In the last days, the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it." This imagery underscores the prominence and centrality of God's kingdom. Conclusion: While the entry does not include a conclusion, it is evident that uplands in the Bible are multifaceted, serving as geographical, agricultural, spiritual, and prophetic symbols. They are integral to understanding the biblical narrative and the life of the people in ancient times. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) High land; ground elevated above the meadows and intervals which lie on the banks of rivers, near the sea, or between hills; land which is generally dry; -- opposed to lowland, meadow, marsh, swamp, interval, and the like.2. (n.) The country, as distinguished from the neighborhood of towns. 3. (a.) of or pertaining to uplands; being on upland; high in situation; as, upland inhabitants; upland pasturage. 4. (a.) Pertaining to the country, as distinguished from the neighborhood of towns; rustic; rude; unpolished. Library Rondelet, {7} the Huguenot Naturalist {8} Palestine Eighteen Centuries Ago The Road to Rome Barzillai Jesus Defends Disciples who Pluck Grain on the Sabbath. February the Eleventh the Hill Country of the Soul August the Sixth Waters of Contentment The Power of Ambition. The First Discovery of America The First Discovery of America. Thesaurus Upland (4 Occurrences)... 3. (a.) of or pertaining to uplands; being on upland; high in situation; as, upland inhabitants; upland pasturage. ...Upland (4 Occurrences). ... /u/upland.htm - 8k Uplifted (26 Occurrences) Northward (41 Occurrences) Upkeep (2 Occurrences) Unpeopled (38 Occurrences) Goim (1 Occurrence) Galilee (73 Occurrences) Wastes (33 Occurrences) Wastelands (4 Occurrences) Derbe (4 Occurrences) Resources Upland: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Upland (4 Occurrences)Joshua 11:2 Joshua 12:23 1 Kings 4:11 Jeremiah 17:6 Subtopics Related Terms |