Geba

Geba is a town of significant historical and biblical importance, located in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. The name "Geba" means "hill" in Hebrew, which is fitting given its geographical setting. It is often mentioned in the context of Israel's military and religious history.

Geba is first mentioned in the Bible in the context of the allotment of land to the tribe of Benjamin. In Joshua 18:24, Geba is listed among the towns given to Benjamin: "Kephar Ammoni, Ophni, and Geba—twelve cities, along with their villages." This indicates its early establishment as a part of the Israelite settlement in Canaan.

The town gained prominence during the reign of King Saul, Israel's first king. In 1 Samuel 13:3, it is recorded that Jonathan, Saul's son, attacked the Philistine garrison at Geba, which was a significant military action: "Jonathan attacked the Philistine outpost at Geba, and the Philistines heard about it. So Saul blew the trumpet throughout the land, saying, 'Let the Hebrews hear!'" This event marked the beginning of open hostilities between Israel and the Philistines during Saul's reign.

Geba also played a role in the religious reforms of King Asa of Judah. In 1 Kings 15:22, Asa used materials from the dismantled fortifications of Ramah to fortify Geba: "Then King Asa issued a proclamation to all Judah, with no exception, and they carried away the stones and timbers of Ramah, which Baasha had used for building. And with these materials King Asa built up Geba of Benjamin, and Mizpah."

In the post-exilic period, Geba is mentioned in the context of the returnees from Babylonian exile. Nehemiah 11:31 notes that some of the people of Benjamin resettled in Geba: "The descendants of Benjamin from Geba lived in Michmash, Aija, and Bethel, and in their villages."

Michmash

Michmash is another town of historical and biblical significance, located near Geba, also within the territory of Benjamin. The name "Michmash" means "hidden" or "something stored" in Hebrew, possibly reflecting its strategic military position.

Michmash is most famously known for the battle between Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and the Philistines. In 1 Samuel 13:5, the Philistines gathered to fight against Israel at Michmash: "The Philistines assembled to fight against Israel, with three thousand chariots, six thousand horsemen, and troops as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They went up and camped at Michmash, east of Beth Aven." This formidable Philistine force posed a significant threat to Israel.

The subsequent events at Michmash highlight Jonathan's bravery and faith. In 1 Samuel 14:1-14, Jonathan and his armor-bearer launched a surprise attack on the Philistine outpost at Michmash, resulting in a significant victory for Israel. This act of faith and courage is recorded in 1 Samuel 14:6: "Jonathan said to the young man bearing his armor, 'Come, let us cross over to the outpost of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will work on our behalf, for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.'"

Michmash is also mentioned in the context of the Assyrian invasion during the reign of King Hezekiah. In Isaiah 10:28-29, the prophet describes the advance of the Assyrian army: "They have entered Aiath; they have passed through Migron; at Michmash they store their supplies. They have crossed over the pass and camped at Geba; Ramah trembles; Gibeah of Saul flees."

In the post-exilic period, Michmash is noted as a place where some of the returning exiles settled, as recorded in Nehemiah 11:31.

Geba and Michmash, both located in the heartland of Benjamin, played crucial roles in Israel's military history and the spiritual narrative of the nation. Their strategic locations made them focal points in the defense and administration of the kingdom, and their accounts are interwoven with the faith and courage of key biblical figures.