Etymology and Meaning:
Enmish'pat, meaning "spring of judgment," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name reflects its association with justice or judgment, possibly indicating a place where legal matters were settled or divine judgments were pronounced.

Biblical References:
Enmish'pat is referenced in Genesis 14:7 in the context of the military campaign of the four kings led by Chedorlaomer. The verse states: "Then they turned back to Enmish'pat (that is, Kadesh) and conquered all the territory of the Amalekites, as well as the Amorites who lived in Hazazon-tamar" (Genesis 14:7). This passage situates Enmish'pat in the narrative of the battle involving the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and the subsequent rescue of Lot by Abram.

Geographical Location:
Enmish'pat is identified with Kadesh, also known as Kadesh-barnea, a significant site in the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites. Kadesh is located in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula, near the border of the Negev desert. It served as a major encampment for the Israelites during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Historical and Theological Significance:
Enmish'pat, as Kadesh, holds considerable historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. It is the place where Moses sent the twelve spies to scout the land of Canaan (Numbers 13:26). The negative report of ten spies led to the Israelites' lack of faith and their subsequent 40 years of wandering in the wilderness (Numbers 14:26-35).

Kadesh is also the site where Moses struck the rock to bring forth water, an act of disobedience that resulted in God forbidding him from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 20:7-12). This event underscores the themes of faith, obedience, and divine judgment, which are central to the narrative of the Israelites' journey.

Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, springs and wells were vital for survival, often becoming centers of settlement and conflict. The association of Enmish'pat with judgment may indicate its role as a gathering place for legal or tribal decisions, reflecting the broader cultural practices of the time.

Related Entries:
· Kadesh-barnea
· Chedorlaomer
· Wilderness Wanderings
· Moses and the Rock

Conclusion:
Enmish'pat, as a location of judgment and a pivotal site in Israel's history, serves as a reminder of the consequences of faith and disobedience. Its mention in the context of the patriarchal narratives and the wilderness wanderings highlights its enduring significance in the biblical tradition.Enmish'pat (1 Occurrence)

Genesis 14:7
And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.
(See RSV)

Enmish'pat (1 Occurrence)
Enmish'pat. En-mishpat, Enmish'pat. Enmities . Multi-Version Concordance
Enmish'pat (1 Occurrence). Genesis 14:7 And they returned ...
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En-mishpat (1 Occurrence)
En-mishpat. Enmishpat, En-mishpat. Enmish'pat . Int. ... (ASV BBE DBY JPS WBS YLT
NAS). Enmishpat, En-mishpat. Enmish'pat . Reference Bible.
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Enmities (1 Occurrence)

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