In biblical geography, the terms "foothills" and "plain" refer to distinct topographical features that hold significant historical and theological importance within the narrative of the Scriptures. These regions often serve as the backdrop for key events and are frequently mentioned in the context of Israel's territorial boundaries and conquests.

Foothills (Shephelah):

The term "foothills" in the Bible is often associated with the Hebrew word "Shephelah," which refers to the lowland region situated between the central highlands of Judah and the coastal plains of Philistia. This area is characterized by rolling hills and fertile valleys, making it a strategic and agriculturally productive region. The Shephelah served as a buffer zone between the Israelites and their Philistine neighbors, often becoming a battleground for control.

In the book of Joshua, the Shephelah is listed among the territories allotted to the tribe of Judah: "And the lowland, Eshtaol, Zorah, Ashnah" (Joshua 15:33). The region's cities, such as Lachish, Azekah, and Socoh, are frequently mentioned in the context of military campaigns and conflicts, including the famous battle between David and Goliath, which took place in the Valley of Elah, located within the Shephelah (1 Samuel 17).

The Shephelah's strategic importance is further highlighted in the accounts of the divided monarchy, where it served as a contested area between the kingdoms of Israel and Judah and their surrounding enemies. The prophet Micah references the Shephelah in his warnings to Judah, emphasizing the region's vulnerability to invasion (Micah 1:15).

Plain (Sharon and Jezreel):

The term "plain" in the biblical context often refers to expansive, flat regions that are conducive to agriculture and settlement. Two significant plains mentioned in the Bible are the Plain of Sharon and the Plain of Jezreel.

The Plain of Sharon is a coastal plain stretching from Joppa (modern-day Jaffa) to Mount Carmel. Known for its beauty and fertility, Sharon is mentioned in the Song of Solomon: "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley" (Song of Solomon 2:1). The prophet Isaiah also speaks of Sharon as a place of future blessing and restoration: "Sharon will become a pasture for flocks" (Isaiah 65:10).

The Plain of Jezreel, located in the northern part of Israel, is another significant plain. It is a broad, fertile valley that has been the site of numerous historical battles due to its strategic location. The Jezreel Valley is mentioned in the context of the victories and defeats of Israel's kings, such as the battle between Gideon and the Midianites (Judges 6-7) and the tragic end of King Saul and his sons on Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31).

The Jezreel Valley is also prophetically significant, as it is associated with the future gathering of nations for the battle of Armageddon, a term derived from "Har Megiddo," or the "Mount of Megiddo," located at the edge of the valley (Revelation 16:16).

In summary, the foothills and plains of biblical Israel are more than mere geographical features; they are integral to the historical and spiritual narrative of the Bible, serving as the setting for divine intervention, prophetic fulfillment, and the unfolding account of God's people.