Dobrath is a location mentioned in the context of biblical geography, specifically within the tribal allotments of the ancient Israelites. It is identified as a town in the territory of the tribe of Issachar. The name "Dobrath" is sometimes rendered as "Daberath" in various translations and biblical references.

Biblical References:

Dobrath is mentioned in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. In Joshua 19:12, the town is listed as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Issachar: "Then it went along to the east of Gath Hepher, to Eth Kazin, and it extended to Rimmon, curving around to Neah." While Dobrath itself is not explicitly named in this verse, it is understood to be part of the region described.

In Joshua 21:28, Dobrath is mentioned as one of the Levitical cities given to the descendants of Gershon, one of the clans of the Levites: "From the tribe of Issachar they gave Kishion, Dobrath." This allocation underscores the town's significance as a Levitical city, serving as a place of residence and service for the Levites, who were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes.

Geographical and Historical Context:

Dobrath is situated in the fertile region of the Jezreel Valley, an area known for its agricultural productivity. The Jezreel Valley was a strategic location in ancient Israel, serving as a crossroads for trade and military routes. The town's placement within this valley would have made it an important site for both economic and military activities.

The identification of Dobrath with the modern site of Daburiyya, located at the base of Mount Tabor, is widely accepted among scholars and archaeologists. This identification is supported by geographical and historical evidence, linking the ancient town to its present-day counterpart.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

As a Levitical city, Dobrath held religious significance in ancient Israel. The Levites, who were responsible for various religious functions, including teaching the Law and performing sacrifices, would have played a crucial role in the spiritual life of the community. The presence of a Levitical city within Issachar's territory highlights the integration of religious and tribal life in Israelite society.

The allocation of cities like Dobrath to the Levites reflects the biblical principle of ensuring that religious leaders were distributed throughout the land, providing spiritual guidance and maintaining the worship of Yahweh among the people. This distribution also served to remind the Israelites of their covenantal relationship with God and their obligations under the Mosaic Law.

Conclusion:

Dobrath, as a Levitical city within the tribe of Issachar, represents an important aspect of the tribal and religious organization of ancient Israel. Its location in the Jezreel Valley and its role as a center for the Levites underscore its significance in the biblical narrative and the life of the Israelite community.Dobrath (3 Occurrences)

Joshua 19:12
and it turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border of Chisloth-tabor; and it went out to Daberath, and went up to Japhia;
(See JPS)

Joshua 21:28
And out of the tribe of Issachar, Kishion with its suburbs, Daberath with its suburbs,
(See JPS)

1 Chronicles 6:72
and out of the tribe of Issachar: Kedesh and its suburbs, Dobrath and its suburbs,
(DBY JPS)

Dobrath (3 Occurrences)
...Dobrath (3 Occurrences). ... 1 Chronicles 6:72 and out of the tribe of Issachar:
Kedesh and its suburbs, Dobrath and its suburbs, (DBY JPS). ...
/d/dobrath.htm - 7k

Do (21637 Occurrences)

/d/do.htm - 8k

Japhi'a (5 Occurrences)
... Joshua 19:12 And it turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border
of Chisloth-tabor; and it went out to Dobrath, and went up to Japhia. ...
/j/japhi'a.htm - 7k

Docile (1 Occurrence)

/d/docile.htm - 7k

Chis'loth-ta'Bor (1 Occurrence)
... Joshua 19:12 And it turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border
of Chisloth-tabor; and it went out to Dobrath, and went up to Japhia. ...
/c/chis'loth-ta'bor.htm - 6k

Thence (152 Occurrences)
... Joshua 19:12 And it turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border
of Chisloth-tabor; and it went out to Dobrath, and went up to Japhia. ...
/t/thence.htm - 37k

Lands (226 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 6:72 and out of the tribe of Issachar: Kedesh with the open land
about it, Dobrath with the open land about it; (See NAS RSV). ...
/l/lands.htm - 35k

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