Topical Encyclopedia Jericho, an ancient city with a rich biblical history, is notably mentioned in the context of the Captives of Judah. This entry explores the significance of Jericho during the period of the Babylonian exile and the return of the Jewish captives.Historical Context Jericho, often referred to as the "City of Palms" (Deuteronomy 34:3), is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. It is located near the Jordan River in the Jordan Valley. The city is famously known for its conquest by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership, as recorded in the Book of Joshua (Joshua 6). However, its significance extends beyond this event, particularly during the time of the Babylonian exile and the subsequent return of the Jewish captives. The Babylonian Exile The Babylonian exile was a pivotal period in Jewish history, beginning in 586 BC when Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, leading to the deportation of many Jews to Babylon. This period of captivity lasted until 538 BC when Cyrus the Great of Persia conquered Babylon and allowed the Jewish exiles to return to their homeland. Jericho's Role in the Return Jericho played a role in the return of the Jewish captives from Babylon. As the exiles made their way back to Judah, Jericho served as a significant point of re-entry into the land. The city's strategic location made it a natural stopping point for those journeying from the east. In the Book of Ezra, the return of the exiles is documented, and Jericho is mentioned in the context of the rebuilding efforts. Ezra 2:34 lists the "men of Jericho" among those who returned from captivity to help rebuild Jerusalem and its temple: "the men of Jericho, 345" . This indicates that a contingent of the returning exiles was specifically associated with Jericho, highlighting the city's continued importance in the post-exilic community. Rebuilding and Restoration The return from exile was not merely a physical journey but also a spiritual and communal restoration. The involvement of the men of Jericho in the rebuilding efforts underscores their commitment to reestablishing their heritage and faith. Nehemiah 3:2 further records the participation of the people of Jericho in the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls: "The men of Jericho built next to them, and Zaccur son of Imri built next to them" . This collaborative effort was crucial in restoring the city and its defenses, symbolizing the renewal of the Jewish community. Symbolic Significance Jericho's mention in the context of the return from exile carries symbolic weight. The city's history of destruction and renewal mirrors the broader narrative of the Jewish people during this period. Just as Jericho was once conquered and rebuilt, so too were the Jewish captives returning to rebuild their lives and their relationship with God. Conclusion While Jericho is often remembered for its dramatic fall in the time of Joshua, its role during the return of the Jewish captives from Babylon is equally significant. The city's involvement in the rebuilding efforts of Jerusalem highlights its enduring place in the biblical narrative and its symbolic representation of restoration and hope for the people of Judah. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 28:7-15And Zichri, a mighty man of Ephraim, slew Maaseiah the king's son, and Azrikam the governor of the house, and Elkanah that was next to the king. Nave's Topical Index Library How Upon the Death of Jotham, Ahaz Reigned in his Stead; against ... A Rebuke against Extortion The Last Agony On Daniel. I. Preface by the Most Holy Hippolytus, (Bishop) of ... The Historical Books. The Children's Bible Hope for the Heathen The Growth of the Old Testament Prophetic Histories The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire In Judaea Resources Matthew 20:29-34 says Jesus healed two blind men as He left Jericho. Mark 10:46-52 and Luke 18:35-43 say He healed one man as He entered Jericho. Is this a contradiction? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Rahab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Besieged by Joshua for Seven Days Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Blind Men Healed At, by Jesus Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Called the City of Palm Trees Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Location of, Pleasant Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rahab the Harlot Lived In Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rebuilt by Hiel Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: The Kenites Lived At Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Zacchaeus Lived At Jericho: Inhabitants of, Taken Captive to Babylon, Return To, With Ezra and Nehemiah Jericho: Joshua Sees the "Captain of the Host" of the Lord Near Jericho: King of Moab Makes Conquest of, and Establishes his Capital At Jericho: Waters of Purified by Elisha Related Terms |