Overview:
Noeba is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Israelite conquest of the Transjordan region. It is associated with the tribe of Manasseh and is linked to the figure of Nobah, who was one of the leaders during the conquest. The name Noeba is often considered a variant or a scribal error for Nobah, which is more commonly referenced in biblical texts.

Biblical References:
The primary reference to Noeba is found in the Book of Numbers, where it is mentioned in the context of territorial conquests by the Israelites. In Numbers 32:42, the Berean Standard Bible states: "And Nobah went and captured Kenath and its villages, and he called it Nobah after his own name." This passage highlights the renaming of a captured city, which is often associated with the name Noeba in some translations or interpretations.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Noeba, or Nobah, is situated in the region of Bashan, which was known for its fertile lands and strong cities. This area was part of the territory allotted to the half-tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes of Israel. The conquest and renaming of cities in this region were part of the broader Israelite campaign to settle in the Promised Land, as directed by God through Moses.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
The act of renaming a city, as Nobah did with Kenath, reflects a common practice in the ancient Near East, symbolizing control and authority over the conquered territory. For the Israelites, such acts were not only political but also carried theological significance, as they were fulfilling the divine mandate to possess the land promised to their ancestors.

The account of Noeba/Nobah underscores themes of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, as the Israelites, under divine guidance, took possession of the land. It also highlights the importance of leadership and initiative, as demonstrated by Nobah's actions in securing and naming the city.

Interpretative Challenges:
The mention of Noeba in some translations and its association with Nobah presents interpretative challenges. Scholars debate whether Noeba is a distinct location or simply a textual variant of Nobah. The lack of additional biblical references to Noeba complicates efforts to pinpoint its exact historical and geographical identity.

Conclusion:
While Noeba is not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, its mention in the context of Israelite conquest and settlement provides insight into the historical and theological dynamics of the period. The renaming of cities like Kenath to Nobah reflects the broader theme of divine promise and fulfillment that characterizes the Israelite journey to establish themselves in the land given to them by God.NOEBA

no'-e-ba (Noeba): Head of one of the families of temple-servants (1 Esdras 5:31) equals "Nekoda" of Ezra 2:48.

Noeba
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia NOEBA. no'-e-ba (Noeba): Head of one of the families
of temple-servants (1 Esdras 5:31) equals "Nekoda" of Ezra 2:48. ...
/n/noeba.htm - 6k

Noe (6 Occurrences)

/n/noe.htm - 8k

Nekoda (4 Occurrences)
... In the parallel verses of 1 Esdras the names are given thus: NOEBA and NEKODAN
(which see). Multi-Version Concordance Nekoda (4 Occurrences). ...
/n/nekoda.htm - 8k

Nogah (2 Occurrences)

/n/nogah.htm - 7k

Nekodan
... exile, but "could not show their families nor their stock" (1 Esdras 5:37)
equals "Nekoda" of Ezra 2:60 Nehemiah 7:62. (2) See NOEBA. ...
/n/nekodan.htm - 6k

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