Eglaim is a city mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the prophetic writings of Isaiah. It is referenced in the context of a prophecy concerning Moab, a nation often in conflict with Israel. The city is noted in Isaiah 15:8, which states, "For their cry echoes to the border of Moab. Their wailing reaches Eglaim; their lamentation reaches Beer Elim." . This passage is part of a larger oracle against Moab, highlighting the impending judgment and devastation that would befall the Moabite cities due to their pride and idolatry.

The exact location of Eglaim is not definitively known, but it is traditionally associated with the region of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. The mention of Eglaim alongside Beer Elim suggests it was a significant settlement within Moab, possibly serving as a center of commerce or administration. The context of Isaiah's prophecy implies that Eglaim, like other Moabite cities, would experience great distress and suffering as a result of divine judgment.

Moab, the nation in which Eglaim was situated, has a complex relationship with Israel throughout the biblical narrative. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and thus shared a distant kinship with the Israelites. Despite this connection, Moab often found itself at odds with Israel, engaging in conflicts and opposing Israelite interests. The Moabites are frequently depicted in the Bible as a people who led Israel into idolatry and immorality, as seen in the account of Balaam and the incident at Peor (Numbers 25).

The prophetic message concerning Eglaim and Moab in Isaiah serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from the God of Israel. The lamentation and wailing that reach Eglaim symbolize the broader theme of divine retribution against nations that oppose God's people and His purposes. This theme is consistent with the biblical portrayal of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ultimate plan to bring about justice and righteousness.

In addition to its mention in Isaiah, Eglaim does not appear elsewhere in the biblical text, leaving much about the city to speculation and scholarly inquiry. However, its inclusion in the prophecy against Moab underscores its role in the broader narrative of God's dealings with the nations surrounding Israel. The historical and theological significance of Eglaim, though limited in detail, contributes to the understanding of the biblical worldview concerning divine judgment and the fate of nations.Isaiah 15:8
For the cry is gone round about the borders of Moab; the howling thereof to Eglaim, and the howling thereof to Beerelim.
Nave's Topical Index

97. Eglayim -- a city in Moab
... Short Definition: Eglaim. Word Origin from the same as egel Definition
a city in Moab NASB Word Usage Eglaim (1). Eglaim. Dual of ...
/hebrew/97.htm - 6kWhat is the importance of the Dead Sea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus