1. Definition and Meaning:
Zebo'im, also spelled Zeboiim, is a term found in the Bible that refers to both a city and a valley. The name Zebo'im is believed to mean "hyenas" or "gazelles" in Hebrew, reflecting the wildlife that may have been prevalent in the area.

2. Zebo'im as a City:
Zebo'im is one of the five cities of the plain mentioned in the Old Testament, which included Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zoar. These cities are most famously known for their destruction due to the wickedness of their inhabitants. The city of Zebo'im is specifically mentioned in Genesis 10:19 as part of the border of the Canaanites: "And the territory of the Canaanites extended from Sidon toward Gerar as far as Gaza, and then toward Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, as far as Lasha."

The destruction of Zebo'im, along with Sodom and Gomorrah, is recounted in Genesis 19. Although Zebo'im is not mentioned by name in this chapter, it is understood to have shared the same fate due to its association with the other cities of the plain.

3. Zebo'im as a Valley:
The Valley of Zebo'im is mentioned in 1 Samuel 13:18, during the account of the Philistine invasion of Israel. The passage states: "Another company turned toward Beth-horon, and another company turned toward the border overlooking the Valley of Zeboiim, facing the wilderness." This valley was located near the territory of Benjamin and was part of the strategic movements during the conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines.

4. Historical and Theological Significance:
The mention of Zebo'im in the context of the cities of the plain highlights the themes of judgment and divine retribution found throughout the Bible. The destruction of these cities serves as a warning against sin and a call to righteousness. The account of Lot and the cities of the plain is often cited in discussions of God's justice and mercy.

The Valley of Zebo'im, on the other hand, is significant in the narrative of Israel's early monarchy and the ongoing struggle against the Philistines. It illustrates the geographical and military challenges faced by the Israelites as they sought to establish themselves in the Promised Land.

5. Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of the city of Zebo'im remains uncertain, it is generally thought to have been situated near the southern end of the Dead Sea, along with the other cities of the plain. Archaeological efforts have yet to definitively identify the site, but the region's history and geography continue to be subjects of study and exploration.

6. References in Scripture:
· Genesis 10:19 : "And the territory of the Canaanites extended from Sidon toward Gerar as far as Gaza, and then toward Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, as far as Lasha."
· 1 Samuel 13:18 : "Another company turned toward Beth-horon, and another company turned toward the border overlooking the Valley of Zeboiim, facing the wilderness."

Zebo'im, both as a city and a valley, serves as a reminder of the biblical themes of judgment, redemption, and the ongoing struggle between the forces of good and evil.Zebo'im (2 Occurrences)

1 Samuel 13:18
and another company turned the way to Beth-horon; and another company turned the way of the border that looketh down upon the valley of Zeboim toward the wilderness.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 11:34
Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat;
(See RSV)

Zebo'im (2 Occurrences)
Zebo'im. Zeboim, Zebo'im. Zebub . Multi-Version Concordance Zebo'im (2
Occurrences). 1 Samuel 13:18 and another company turned the ...
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Zeboim (7 Occurrences)

/z/zeboim.htm - 11k

Zebub (4 Occurrences)

/z/zebub.htm - 8k

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