Topical Encyclopedia Gazara, also known as Gezer, is an ancient city of significant historical and biblical importance, located in the Shephelah region of ancient Israel. It is frequently mentioned in biblical and extrabiblical sources, highlighting its strategic and cultural significance throughout various periods of history.Biblical References and Historical Context Gazara is first mentioned in the context of the conquest of Canaan. In Joshua 10:33 , it is recorded: "Then Horam king of Gezer went up to help Lachish, but Joshua struck him down along with his people, leaving no survivors." This passage indicates that Gazara was a Canaanite city during the time of Joshua's conquests and was involved in the regional conflicts of that era. The city is also noted in the allotment of land to the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 16:10 , it is mentioned as part of the territory of Ephraim: "But they did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the Ephraimites but are forced into labor." This verse highlights the incomplete conquest of the land and the continued presence of Canaanites in the region. Gazara's significance is further underscored during the reign of Solomon. In 1 Kings 9:15-17 , it is recorded that Pharaoh, king of Egypt, captured and burned the city, later giving it as a dowry to his daughter, Solomon's wife: "This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon conscripted to build the house of the LORD, his own palace, the supporting terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer. Pharaoh king of Egypt had attacked and captured Gezer. He had set it on fire, killed the Canaanites who lived there, and given it as a dowry to his daughter, Solomon’s wife. So Solomon rebuilt Gezer." Intertestamental Period and Maccabean Revolt During the intertestamental period, Gazara gained prominence in the accounts of the Maccabean Revolt. The city was a strategic military site during the conflicts between the Jewish Maccabees and the Seleucid Empire. In 1 Maccabees 4:15, it is noted that the Seleucid forces fled to Gazara after being defeated by Judas Maccabeus. Later, Simon Maccabeus captured and fortified the city, as recorded in 1 Maccabees 13:43-48. Archaeological Significance Archaeological excavations at the site of ancient Gezer have revealed significant findings, including fortifications, water systems, and inscriptions. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the city's history and its role in the broader context of the ancient Near East. Cultural and Theological Implications Gazara's repeated mention in biblical narratives underscores its importance as a site of conflict and cultural exchange. The city's history reflects the broader themes of conquest, settlement, and the struggle for control in the Promised Land. It serves as a testament to the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors, as well as the fulfillment of divine promises and judgments. In summary, Gazara stands as a significant historical and biblical site, illustrating the dynamic history of the region and its enduring legacy in the biblical narrative. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GAZARAga-za'-ra (Gazara, Gazera): Library Gadara Concerning the Successors of Judas, who were Jonathan and Simon ... How the Hebrews were Delivered from a Famine when the Gibeonites ... How, after the Death of Antiochus, Hyrcanus Made an Expedition ... How Jonathan Took the Government after his Brother Judas; And How Jonathan was Slain by Treachery; and How Thereupon the Jews ... Thesaurus Gazara... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GAZARA. ga-za'-ra (Gazara, Gazera): A fortress of great strength in Judea, which figures often in the Maccabean wars. ... /g/gazara.htm - 7k Gezer (14 Occurrences) Timotheus (24 Occurrences) Gazah (16 Occurrences) Jabneh (1 Occurrence) Jabneel (2 Occurrences) Gazera Gazathite (1 Occurrence) Chaereas Adasa Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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