Avvim, Parah, Ophrah, AvvimThe name "Avvim" refers to a location within the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew root of "Avvim" is "עַוִּים" (Avvim), which can be associated with ruins or desolation. Historically, the Avvim were a people mentioned earlier in the Bible, specifically in Deuteronomy 2:23, as inhabitants of villages in the region of Gaza before being displaced by the Caphtorim. This connection to ancient peoples and their displacement highlights the ongoing theme of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel. The mention of Avvim in Joshua 18:23 serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's plan and the historical depth of the land's occupation. Parah Ophrah Persons / Places / Events 1. AvvimA town within the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. The name may be related to the Avvites, a people mentioned elsewhere in the Old Testament. 2. Parah Another town in the land given to Benjamin. Its exact location is uncertain, but it is part of the inheritance that was distributed among the tribes of Israel. 3. Ophrah A town also within Benjamin's territory. It is distinct from the Ophrah associated with Gideon in the book of Judges. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of PromisesThe allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, including Benjamin, demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham and his descendants. The Importance of Inheritance The detailed listing of towns and territories underscores the importance of inheritance and the tangible blessings God provides to His people. Community and Belonging The specific mention of towns within Benjamin's territory highlights the sense of community and belonging that comes with being part of God's people. Historical and Spiritual Significance Understanding the historical context of these locations enriches our appreciation of the spiritual journey of the Israelites and God's overarching plan. Stewardship of God's Gifts The division of the land serves as a reminder of the responsibility to steward well the gifts and resources God entrusts to us. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the allocation of land to the tribe of Benjamin reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?2. In what ways can understanding the historical context of biblical locations enhance our spiritual journey today? 3. How does the concept of inheritance in Joshua 18 relate to our spiritual inheritance as believers in Christ? 4. What lessons can we learn about community and belonging from the detailed listing of towns in the tribal allotments? 5. How can we apply the principle of stewardship, as seen in the division of the land, to our own lives and resources today? Connections to Other Scriptures Joshua 18:11-28This passage provides the broader context of the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, specifically focusing on the allotment for the tribe of Benjamin. It highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan. Genesis 15:18-21 This passage records God's covenant with Abraham, promising the land to his descendants. The division of the land in Joshua is a direct fulfillment of this promise. Judges 6:11 Although referring to a different Ophrah, this passage connects to the theme of God raising leaders from specific locations to fulfill His purposes.
People Addar, Ben, Benjamin, Bohan, Ephron, Gad, Gibeon, Hoglah, Israelites, Joseph, Joshua, Levites, Manasseh, Ophrah, Rekem, ReubenPlaces Adummim, Arabah, Ataroth-addar, Avvim, Beeroth, Beth-arabah, Beth-aven, Bethel, Beth-hoglah, Beth-horon, Emek-keziz, En-rogel, En-shemesh, Ephron, Geba, Geliloth, Gibeah, Gibeon, Haeleph, Irpeel, Jebus, Jericho, Jerusalem, Jordan River, Kiriath-baal, Kiriath-jearim, Luz, Mizpeh, Mozah, Nephtoah, Ophni, Ophrah, Parah, Ramah, Rekem, Salt Sea, Shiloh, Taralah, Valley of Hinnom, Valley of Rephaim, Zela, ZemaraimTopics Avim, Avvim, Ophrah, Parah, PharahDictionary of Bible Themes Joshua 18:11-28Library The Northern Coast of Judea. Beth-Horon. This coast is marked out Joshua 18:12; where, at verse 14, are very many versions to be corrected, which render the sea; such are, the Syriac, the Seventy, the Vulgar, the Italian, ours, &c.: whence ariseth a sense of insuperable difficulty to a chorographical eye: when it should, indeed, be rendered of the west, as the Chaldee, Arabic, R. Solomon, &c. rightly do. We read of a double Beth-horon in the Old Testament, but one only under the second Temple... At that place that great Canaanitish army … John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Ramah. Ramathaim Zophim. Gibeah. Beth-El. Beth-Aven. Retiring Before the Sanhedrin's Decree. Flight into Egypt and Slaughter of the Bethlehem Children. Subjects of Study. Home Education in Israel; Female Education. Elementary Schools, Schoolmasters, and School Arrangements. Joshua Links Joshua 18:23 NIVJoshua 18:23 NLT Joshua 18:23 ESV Joshua 18:23 NASB Joshua 18:23 KJV Joshua 18:23 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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