Topical Encyclopedia The term "The Whole Land" is often used in the Bible to refer to the entirety of the Promised Land, the land that God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This land is central to the biblical narrative and holds significant theological and historical importance.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 15:18-21: In the covenant with Abram, God delineates the boundaries of the land He promises to Abram's descendants: "On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, 'To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates—the land of the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.'" 2. Exodus 23:31: God reiterates the promise of the land to the Israelites, stating, "And I will set your borders from the Red Sea to the Sea of the Philistines, and from the desert to the Euphrates. For I will deliver the inhabitants of the land into your hand, and you will drive them out before you." 3. Deuteronomy 11:24: The promise of the land is reaffirmed as Moses speaks to the Israelites: "Every place where the sole of your foot treads will be yours. Your territory will extend from the wilderness to Lebanon, and from the Euphrates River to the Western Sea." 4. Joshua 1:3-4: As Joshua prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, God assures him, "I have given you every place where the sole of your foot will tread, just as I promised to Moses. Your territory shall extend from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great river Euphrates—all the land of the Hittites—and west as far as the Great Sea." Theological Significance: The concept of "The Whole Land" is deeply rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, which is foundational to the identity and mission of Israel as God's chosen people. The land is not merely a geographical location but a symbol of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. It represents a place where God's people can live in obedience to His laws and experience His blessings. Historical Context: Throughout the Old Testament, the land is a focal point of Israel's history. The conquest of Canaan under Joshua, the establishment of the monarchy, and the subsequent division and exile of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah are all tied to the land. The land serves as a backdrop for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, culminating in the coming of the Messiah. Prophetic and Eschatological Dimensions: Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel speak of a future restoration of the land, envisioning a time when Israel will be regathered and the land will experience peace and prosperity. This eschatological hope is echoed in the New Testament, where the land is often seen as a type or foreshadowing of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in the new heavens and new earth. Conclusion: The Whole Land, as described in the Bible, is more than a physical territory; it is a testament to God's covenantal relationship with His people. It serves as a reminder of His promises, His faithfulness, and His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration. |