Introduction:
Zareah, also spelled Zorah, is a location of significant historical and biblical importance, primarily mentioned in the Old Testament. It is associated with the tribe of Dan and is notable for its connection to the account of Samson, one of the judges of Israel.

Biblical References:
Zareah is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the allotment of land to the tribe of Dan. Joshua 19:41 states, "The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir-shemesh." This indicates its geographical and tribal significance as part of the Danite inheritance.

The town is most famously linked to Samson, the Nazirite judge known for his extraordinary strength. Judges 13:2 introduces Samson's origins: "Now there was a man from Zorah, from the clan of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; his wife was barren and had no children." This passage sets the stage for the miraculous birth of Samson, who would become a central figure in Israel's struggle against the Philistines.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Zareah is located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of ancient Israel, which served as a buffer zone between the coastal Philistine territories and the central highlands occupied by the Israelites. This strategic location made it a site of frequent conflict and interaction between these two cultures.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Zareah was a fortified city during the period of the Judges, reflecting its importance in the defense against Philistine incursions. The town's proximity to the Philistine border underscores the tension and hostilities that characterized the era.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
The account of Samson, beginning in Zareah, is rich with theological themes, including the sovereignty of God, the Nazirite vow, and the consequences of personal choices. Samson's life, marked by divine intervention from birth, illustrates the power and purpose of God working through flawed human instruments to achieve His will.

Zareah's mention in the context of Samson's narrative highlights the recurring biblical theme of God raising deliverers from unexpected places and circumstances. Despite the moral and spiritual failings of its inhabitants, Zareah is remembered as the starting point of one of Israel's most legendary judges.

Conclusion:
While Zareah may not be as frequently mentioned as other biblical locations, its role in the narrative of Samson provides a profound insight into the dynamics of Israel's history during the time of the Judges. The town's legacy is preserved through its association with the divine calling and exploits of Samson, serving as a testament to God's enduring faithfulness to His people.Zareah

leprosy; hornet

Zareah

the same as Zorah and Zoreah. (Nehemiah 11:29)

ZAREAH

za'-re-a, za-re'-a (tsor`ah): the King James Version in Nehemiah 11:29 for ZORAH (which see).

6881. Tsorah -- a city exchanged by Judah and Dan
... Zareah, Zorah, Zoreah. Apparently another form for tsir'ah; Tsorah, a place in
Palestine -- Zareah, Zorah, Zoreah. see HEBREW tsir'ah. 6880, 6881. ...
/hebrew/6881.htm - 6kZareah (1 Occurrence)
...ZAREAH. za'-re-a, za-re'-a (tsor`ah): the King James Version in Nehemiah 11:29 for
ZORAH (which see). Multi-Version Concordance Zareah (1 Occurrence). ...
/z/zareah.htm - 6k

Zareathite (1 Occurrence)

/z/zareathite.htm - 6k

Zorah (10 Occurrences)
... 33 it is, with Eshtaol, allotted to Judah, and after the captivity it was reinhabited
by the "children of Judah" (Nehemiah 11:29, the King James Version "Zareah...
/z/zorah.htm - 11k

Zardeus

/z/zardeus.htm - 6k

Enrimmon (1 Occurrence)
... See PEF, 398; Sh XXIV. EWG Masterman. Multi-Version Concordance Enrimmon (1 Occurrence).
Nehemiah 11:29 And at Enrimmon, and at Zareah, and at Jarmuth, (KJV). ...
/e/enrimmon.htm - 7k

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