Geba is a town of significant historical and biblical importance located in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. Its name means "hill" or "height," which is fitting given its geographical setting. Geba is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of military and religious events.

In the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, Geba was allotted to the tribe of Benjamin (Joshua 18:24). It served as a Levitical city, designated for the priests, as noted in Joshua 21:17. This highlights its religious significance within the Israelite community.

Geba is perhaps most famously known for its strategic military importance. In 1 Samuel 13:3, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, attacked the Philistine garrison stationed at Geba, an act that precipitated a larger conflict between Israel and the Philistines. This event underscores Geba's role as a military outpost and its strategic location in the defense of Israel.

The town is also mentioned in the context of King Asa's reign. In 1 Kings 15:22, Asa used materials from the dismantled fortifications of Ramah to fortify Geba, further emphasizing its strategic importance. This act was part of Asa's efforts to strengthen the defenses of Judah against potential threats.

In the post-exilic period, Geba is mentioned in the book of Nehemiah as one of the towns where the people of Israel resettled after returning from Babylonian exile (Nehemiah 11:31). This indicates that Geba continued to be an important settlement in the restoration of the Jewish community.

Mizpah

Mizpah, meaning "watchtower" or "lookout," is a name associated with several locations in the Bible, but it is most commonly identified with a site in the territory of Benjamin. Mizpah holds a prominent place in biblical history, serving as a significant religious and political center.

One of the earliest mentions of Mizpah is in the book of Judges, where it served as a gathering place for the tribes of Israel. In Judges 20:1, the Israelites assembled at Mizpah to address the grievous crime committed in Gibeah, leading to the conflict with the tribe of Benjamin. This assembly underscores Mizpah's role as a central meeting place for the tribes.

Mizpah is also notable in the narrative of Samuel, the prophet and judge of Israel. In 1 Samuel 7:5-6, Samuel called the Israelites to Mizpah for a time of repentance and renewal of their covenant with God. It was here that Samuel prayed for Israel's deliverance from the Philistines, and God responded by granting them victory. This event highlights Mizpah's significance as a site of spiritual renewal and divine intervention.

During the reign of King Saul, Mizpah continued to be an important location. In 1 Samuel 10:17, Saul was publicly chosen as king at Mizpah, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's transition from a tribal confederation to a monarchy.

In the post-exilic period, Mizpah served as the administrative center under Gedaliah, whom the Babylonians appointed as governor over the remnant in Judah (2 Kings 25:23). This indicates that Mizpah retained its importance even after the destruction of Jerusalem.

Both Geba and Mizpah are integral to the biblical narrative, reflecting their roles in Israel's religious, military, and political history. Their repeated mention in various contexts underscores their enduring significance throughout the biblical period.