Biblical References:
Hammoth-Dor, also referred to as Hammon, is mentioned in the Old Testament as a Levitical city within the territory of the tribe of Naphtali. The primary reference to Hammoth-Dor can be found in the Book of Joshua:

· Joshua 21:32 : "And from the tribe of Naphtali they gave Kedesh in Galilee, a city of refuge for the manslayer, Hammoth-dor, and Kartan—three cities, along with their pasturelands."

Historical and Geographical Context:
Hammoth-Dor is identified as one of the cities allocated to the Levites, specifically to the Gershonite clan, as part of their inheritance in the Promised Land. The allocation of cities to the Levites was a fulfillment of God's command to provide for the priestly tribe, who were not given a separate territory like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were distributed among the tribes to perform their religious duties and to teach the Law.

The name "Hammoth-Dor" is believed to be derived from the Hebrew words "ḥammoth," meaning "hot springs," and "Dor," which may refer to a nearby region or city. This suggests that the location may have been known for its thermal springs, which were common in the region of Galilee.

Theological Significance:
The allocation of Hammoth-Dor to the Levites underscores the importance of the Levitical priesthood in ancient Israelite society. The Levites were set apart for the service of the Lord, and their presence in various cities throughout Israel facilitated the teaching of the Law and the maintenance of religious practices. This distribution also served to integrate the spiritual leadership of the Levites into the daily lives of the Israelites, ensuring that the worship of Yahweh remained central to the community.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of Hammoth-Dor has not been definitively identified, it is generally associated with the area around modern-day Tiberias, near the Sea of Galilee. The presence of hot springs in this region supports the etymological connection to the name "Hammoth." Archaeological findings in the broader region of Galilee have provided insights into the historical and cultural context of the Levitical cities, although specific evidence directly linked to Hammoth-Dor remains limited.

Related Entries:
· Levitical Cities: The cities given to the Levites, including Hammoth-Dor, were strategically located throughout the land of Israel to ensure that the priestly tribe could fulfill their religious duties and provide spiritual guidance to the people.
· Tribe of Naphtali: One of the twelve tribes of Israel, whose territory included the city of Hammoth-Dor. The tribe of Naphtali was known for its fertile land and strategic location in the northern part of Israel.

Conclusion:
Hammoth-Dor, as a Levitical city, played a role in the religious and communal life of ancient Israel. Its mention in the biblical narrative highlights the integration of the Levites into the broader Israelite society and the importance of maintaining a spiritual presence throughout the land.1 Chronicles 6:76
And out of the tribe of Naphtali; Kedesh in Galilee with her suburbs, and Hammon with her suburbs, and Kirjathaim with her suburbs.
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