Akrabbim, also known as the "Ascent of Akrabbim" or "Scorpion Pass," is a geographical feature mentioned in the Bible as a boundary marker in the southern region of ancient Israel. This chain of hills is located in the Negev desert, forming part of the southern border of the Promised Land as described in the Old Testament.

Biblical References:

1. Numbers 34:4 · In the delineation of the boundaries of the land allotted to the Israelites, Akrabbim is mentioned as a significant landmark: "Your border will turn from the south to the Ascent of Akrabbim, continue to Zin, and end at Kadesh-barnea. Then it will go to Hazar-addar and over to Azmon."

2. Joshua 15:3 · The territory of the tribe of Judah is described, with Akrabbim marking part of its southern boundary: "It proceeded southward to the Ascent of Akrabbim, passed on to Zin, and went up to the south of Kadesh-barnea. Then it went on to Hezron, up to Addar, and turned toward Karka."

3. Judges 1:36 · The extent of the Amorite territory is described, with Akrabbim serving as a boundary: "The border of the Amorites extended from the Ascent of Akrabbim to Sela and beyond."

Geographical and Historical Context:

Akrabbim is traditionally identified with the modern-day region near the Scorpion Pass, a steep and rugged ascent in the Negev desert. This area is characterized by its arid climate and rocky terrain, making it a natural boundary in the ancient landscape. The name "Akrabbim" is derived from the Hebrew word for "scorpions," likely referring to the dangerous wildlife or the treacherous nature of the terrain.

In biblical times, the Ascent of Akrabbim served as a critical demarcation line, separating the territories of the Israelites from those of neighboring peoples such as the Edomites and the Amorites. Its mention in the context of tribal boundaries underscores its importance in defining the extent of the land promised to the descendants of Abraham.

Theological Significance:

The inclusion of Akrabbim in the biblical narrative highlights the precision with which God delineated the inheritance of the tribes of Israel. It serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises to His people, providing them with a land of their own. The boundaries, including natural landmarks like Akrabbim, were divinely ordained and served as a constant reminder of God's covenant with Israel.

Furthermore, the mention of Akrabbim in the context of the Amorite territory in Judges underscores the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the surrounding nations. It reflects the challenges faced by the Israelites in securing and maintaining their God-given inheritance amidst external threats and influences.

In summary, Akrabbim stands as a significant geographical and theological marker within the biblical narrative, symbolizing both the physical boundaries of the Promised Land and the spiritual realities of God's covenantal faithfulness to His people.Numbers 34:4
And your border shall turn from the south to the ascent of Akrabbim, and pass on to Zin: and the going forth thereof shall be from the south to Kadeshbarnea, and shall go on to Hazaraddar, and pass on to Azmon:
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Joshua 15:3
And it went out to the south side to Maalehacrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and ascended up on the south side to Kadeshbarnea, and passed along to Hezron, and went up to Adar, and fetched a compass to Karkaa:
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Judges 1:36
And the coast of the Amorites was from the going up to Akrabbim, from the rock, and upward.
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