Topical Encyclopedia Hemath, also referred to as Hamath, is a significant location mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of ancient Israel's geography and its interactions with neighboring nations. It is often associated with the northern boundary of the Promised Land and is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament.Geographical Significance: Hemath is located in the region that is today part of modern-day Syria. It was a prominent city in ancient times, situated on the Orontes River. The city served as a strategic and commercial hub due to its location on trade routes connecting Mesopotamia, the Levant, and Egypt. In biblical times, Hemath was considered a major city-state and was known for its influence and power. Biblical References: 1. Boundary of the Promised Land: Hemath is often mentioned as a northern boundary marker for the land promised to the Israelites. In Numbers 34:8, the Bible states, "From Mount Hor, you are to mark out the entrance to Hamath, and the border shall extend to Zedad." This indicates the extent of the land that God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 2. David's Conquests: King David's military campaigns extended to the region of Hemath. In 2 Samuel 8:9-10, it is recorded that "When King Toi of Hamath heard that David had defeated the entire army of Hadadezer, he sent his son Joram to King David to greet him and bless him for fighting against Hadadezer, who had been at war with Toi." This passage highlights the political dynamics and alliances during David's reign. 3. Prophetic Warnings: The prophets often mentioned Hemath in their oracles against the nations. In Amos 6:14, the Lord declares, "For behold, I will raise up a nation against you, O house of Israel, declares the LORD, the God of Hosts; and they will oppress you from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of the Arabah." This prophecy underscores the impending judgment and the extent of the land affected by foreign oppression. 4. Solomon's Reign: During King Solomon's reign, the influence of Israel extended to Hemath. In 1 Kings 8:65, it is noted, "So Solomon and all Israel with him—a great assembly from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of Egypt—observed the festival before the LORD our God for seven days and seven more days—fourteen days in all." This passage reflects the prosperity and unity of Israel under Solomon's rule. Cultural and Historical Context: Hemath was known for its cultural and economic significance in the ancient Near East. It was a center for trade and interaction among various peoples and cultures. The city's strategic location made it a focal point for military campaigns and political alliances. Theological Implications: The references to Hemath in the Bible serve as reminders of God's promises and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel. The city's mention in prophetic literature also highlights the themes of judgment and restoration, as God used neighboring nations to discipline His people and ultimately bring about His redemptive purposes. In summary, Hemath holds a prominent place in biblical history as a geographical marker, a site of military and political significance, and a symbol of God's dealings with His people and the nations surrounding them. Smith's Bible Dictionary Hemath(heat), a person or place named in the genealogical lists of Judah, as the origin of the Kenites, and the "father" of the house of Rechab. (1 Chronicles 2:55) (B.C. 1445.) Easton's Bible Dictionary A Kenite (1 Chronicles 2:55), the father of the house of Rechab. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HEMATHhe'-math. Strong's Hebrew 2574. Chamath -- a place North of Damascus... Hamath, Hemath. From the same as chowmah; walled; Chamath, a place in Syria -- Hamath, Hemath. see HEBREW chowmah. 2573, 2574. Chamath. 2575 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/2574.htm - 6k Library Quotations from the Lxx. In Early Christian Writings. Thesaurus Hemath (3 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HEMATH. he'-math. See HAMMATH (1 Chronicles 2:55). Multi-Version Concordance Hemath (3 Occurrences). ... /h/hemath.htm - 7k Hamath (36 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Temah (2 Occurrences) Suchathites (1 Occurrence) Heman's (1 Occurrence) Hemdan (2 Occurrences) Entering (124 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hemath (3 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 2:55 1 Chronicles 13:5 Amos 6:14 Subtopics Hemath: An Unknown Person or Place Hemath: Another Form for Hamath Related Terms |
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