Topical Encyclopedia Gibeon, an ancient city located in the territory of Benjamin, holds significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. It is situated approximately 6 miles northwest of Jerusalem and is known for its strategic location and its association with several key events in the Old Testament.Historical Context Gibeon first appears prominently in the biblical account during the conquest of Canaan under Joshua. The Gibeonites, aware of the Israelites' victories over Jericho and Ai, resorted to deception to secure a peace treaty with Israel. Disguising themselves as travelers from a distant land, they convinced Joshua and the leaders of Israel to make a covenant with them (Joshua 9:3-15). Despite the deceit, the Israelites honored the treaty, and the Gibeonites became servants, hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation and the altar of the LORD (Joshua 9:21, 27). The Battle of Gibeon Gibeon is also the site of a miraculous event during a significant battle. When the Amorite kings attacked Gibeon for allying with Israel, Joshua led a counterattack. In response to Joshua's prayer, God caused the sun to stand still, prolonging the day until Israel achieved victory (Joshua 10:12-14). This event underscores God's direct intervention in the affairs of His people and His commitment to fulfilling His promises. Gibeon in the United Monarchy During the reign of King David, Gibeon was the location of a notable confrontation between the forces of Joab, David's commander, and those of Abner, the commander of Saul's army (2 Samuel 2:12-17). This encounter further solidified David's position as the rightful king of Israel. Gibeon also served as a significant religious center. The tabernacle of the LORD was located there during the early part of Solomon's reign. It was at Gibeon that Solomon famously offered a thousand burnt offerings and received divine wisdom in a dream (1 Kings 3:4-15; 2 Chronicles 1:3-13). This event highlights Gibeon's role as a place of worship and divine revelation. Theological Significance The narrative of Gibeon illustrates several theological themes, including the sovereignty of God, the importance of covenant faithfulness, and the power of prayer. The Gibeonites' account serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the consequences of deceit, while the miraculous victory at Gibeon demonstrates God's ability to control the natural world for the benefit of His people. Archaeological Insights Modern archaeological excavations at the site of Gibeon, identified with the village of el-Jib, have uncovered significant findings, including ancient water systems and wine cellars, which corroborate the biblical account of a well-established and fortified city. These discoveries provide valuable context for understanding the historical and cultural backdrop of the biblical narrative. In summary, Gibeon is a multifaceted location within the biblical text, serving as a backdrop for divine intervention, covenant relationships, and the unfolding of God's plan for Israel. Its legacy continues to offer insights into the nature of God's interactions with His people and the unfolding of His redemptive history. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 2:24Joab also and Abishai pursued after Abner: and the sun went down when they were come to the hill of Ammah, that lies before Giah by the way of the wilderness of Gibeon. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Humbly Inscribed to his Grace the Duke of Newcastle, one of his ... The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: Resources What is Zoroastrianism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about prosperity? | GotQuestions.org What can I do when I don't feel any love for God? | GotQuestions.org Deserts: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Deserts: Arabian or Great Desert Deserts: Danger of Travelling In Deserts: Dry and Without Water Deserts: Infested With Robbers Deserts: Infested With Serpents Deserts: Infested With Wild Beasts Deserts: Inhabited by Wandering Tribes Deserts: Parts of, Afforded Pasture Deserts: Phenomena of, Alluded to Clouds of Sand and Dust Deserts: Phenomena of, Alluded to Mirage or Deceptive Appearance of Water Deserts: Phenomena of, Alluded to Simoom or Deadly Wind Deserts: Phenomena of, Alluded to Tornadoes or Whirlwinds Deserts: The Disaffected Fled To Deserts: The Persecuted Fled To Deserts: Those Deprived of Blessings Deserts: Uninhabited and Lonesome Deserts: What Affords No Support Related Terms Beth-jeshimoth (4 Occurrences) |
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