Topical Encyclopedia Methegammah is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Samuel 8:1, which states, "Some time later, David defeated the Philistines, subdued them, and took Methegammah from the hand of the Philistines." The Berean Standard Bible uses the term "Methegammah," which has been a subject of scholarly debate regarding its precise meaning and location.Historical Context The reference to Methegammah occurs during the period of King David's military campaigns, which were instrumental in establishing Israel as a dominant power in the region. This era was marked by David's efforts to secure Israel's borders and subdue surrounding hostile nations, including the Philistines, who were perennial adversaries of Israel. Interpretation and Meaning The term "Methegammah" is often interpreted as a proper noun, possibly referring to a specific location or stronghold. Some scholars suggest that it might be another name for the city of Gath, one of the principal cities of the Philistines. This interpretation is supported by the parallel account in 1 Chronicles 18:1, which states, "Later, David defeated the Philistines and subdued them, and he took Gath and its villages from the hand of the Philistines." The Hebrew word "Methegammah" is somewhat enigmatic, and its etymology is not entirely clear. Some translations and interpretations suggest it could mean "bridle of the mother city," implying a strategic or central location that, once captured, would signify control over the surrounding region. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the capture of Methegammah underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to David and the Israelites. It highlights David's role as a divinely appointed king who was successful in expanding and securing the territory of Israel. This victory over the Philistines is seen as part of God's providential plan to establish Israel as a nation under His covenant. David's military successes, including the capture of Methegammah, are often viewed as manifestations of God's favor and faithfulness to His people. These victories are not merely historical events but are imbued with spiritual significance, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the importance of obedience to His will. Conclusion While the exact identification of Methegammah remains uncertain, its mention in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to David's leadership and the divine assistance he received in his military endeavors. The capture of this location symbolizes the broader theme of God's deliverance and the establishment of Israel as a nation under His guidance. Smith's Bible Dictionary Methegammah(bridle of the metropolis), a place which David took from the Philistines, apparently in his last war with them. (2 Samuel 8:1) Ammah may be taken as meaning "mother-city" or "metropolis," comp. (2 Samuel 20:19) and Metheg-he-Ammah "the bridle of the mother-city" --viz. of Gath, the chief town of the Philistines. Easton's Bible Dictionary Bridle of the mother, a figurative name for a chief city, as in 2 Samuel 8:1, "David took Metheg-ammah out of the hand of the Philistines" (R.V., "took the bridle of the mother-city"); i.e., subdued their capital or strongest city, viz., Gath (1 Chronicles 18:1). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia METHEG-AMMAHme-theg-am'-a, meth-eg-am'-a (mathegh ha-'ammah, "bridle of the metropolis"; Septuagint ten aphorismenen): It is probable that the place-name Metheg-Ammah in 2 Samuel 8:1 the King James Version should be rendered as in the Revised Version (British and American), "the bridle of the mother city," i.e. Gath, since we find in the parallel passage in 1 Chronicles 18:1 gath ubhenotheha, "Gath and her daughters," i.e. daughter towns. The Septuagint has an entirely different reading: "and David took the tribute out of the hand of the Philistines," showing that they had a different text from what we now have in the Hebrew. The text is evidently corrupt. If a place is intended its site is unknown, but it must have been in the Philistine plain and in the vicinity of Gath. Thesaurus Methegammah (1 Occurrence)... vicinity of Gath. H. Porter. Multi-Version Concordance Methegammah (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 8:1 And after this it came to pass that ... /m/methegammah.htm - 8k Metheg (1 Occurrence) Metheg-ammah (1 Occurrence) Ammah (2 Occurrences) Gath (44 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Methegammah (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 8:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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