Topical Encyclopedia Lebanon, a region of significant historical and biblical importance, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as the northern boundary of the land of Canaan. Known for its majestic cedar trees and mountainous terrain, Lebanon played a crucial role in the biblical narrative and the life of ancient Israel.Geographical Context Lebanon is situated to the north of the land of Canaan, which is the ancient name for the region that encompasses modern-day Israel and parts of surrounding countries. The geographical boundaries of Lebanon in biblical times included the famous mountain ranges, notably Mount Lebanon, which is often referenced in the Bible for its lush forests and valuable timber. Biblical References The Bible frequently mentions Lebanon in the context of its natural resources, particularly its cedars. These trees were highly prized for their quality and were used in the construction of significant biblical structures, including Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 5:6, Solomon requests timber from Lebanon, saying, "So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say. You know that we have no one so skilled in felling timber as the Sidonians." Lebanon's mountains are also noted for their beauty and strength. In Psalm 29:5-6, the psalmist writes, "The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox." Cultural and Historical Significance Lebanon was home to the Phoenicians, a seafaring people known for their trade and craftsmanship. The cities of Tyre and Sidon, located in ancient Lebanon, were significant centers of commerce and culture. These cities are mentioned in various biblical accounts, often in the context of trade and interaction with Israel. The relationship between Israel and Lebanon was complex, involving both cooperation and conflict. The alliance between King Solomon and Hiram, king of Tyre, exemplifies a period of cooperation, particularly in the procurement of materials for the Temple. However, the prophets often spoke against the idolatry and moral corruption associated with the cities of Tyre and Sidon, as seen in Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 23. Symbolism and Prophetic Imagery Lebanon's cedars and mountains are used symbolically throughout the Bible. The cedars represent strength, majesty, and durability, often serving as metaphors for powerful nations or leaders. In the Song of Solomon, Lebanon is depicted as a place of beauty and fragrance, enhancing the poetic imagery of love and desire. Prophetically, Lebanon is mentioned in the context of judgment and restoration. Isaiah 35:2 speaks of Lebanon's future glory, "It will bloom abundantly and even rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God." Conclusion Lebanon's role as the northern boundary of Canaan and its rich natural resources made it a significant region in biblical history. Its cedars, mountains, and cities are woven into the biblical narrative, reflecting both the grandeur of God's creation and the complexities of human interaction. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 1:7Turn you, and take your journey, and go to the mount of the Amorites, and to all the places near thereunto, in the plain, in the hills, and in the vale, and in the south, and by the sea side, to the land of the Canaanites, and to Lebanon, to the great river, the river Euphrates. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 11:24 Library The Gospel Refuge. The Reaction against Egypt The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Rise of the Assyrian Empire Solomon's Temple Spiritualized Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Resources What is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the land of Canaan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Esther in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Lebanon: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lebanon of Great and Powerful Monarchs Lebanon: (Fragrance of) of the Graces of the Church Lebanon: (Glory of) of the Glory of the Church Lebanon: (Mourning of) of Deep Affliction Lebanon: (Shaking of Its Forests) Prodigious Growth of The Lebanon: "House of the Forest of" Lebanon: Bounded the Land of Canaan on the North Lebanon: Called: Mount Lebanon Lebanon: Called: That Goodly Mountain Lebanon: Called: The Mountains Lebanon: Celebrated For: Cedars Lebanon: Celebrated For: Flowers Lebanon: Celebrated For: Fragrance Lebanon: Celebrated For: Fragrance of Its Wines Lebanon: Celebrated For: Glorious Appearance Lebanon: Difficulties of Passing, Surmounted by Assyrian Army Lebanon: Fertility and Productiveness of Lebanon: Forests of, Infested With Wild Beasts Lebanon: Formerly Inhabited by the Hivites Lebanon: Furnished: Stones for Solomon's Temple Lebanon: Furnished: Wood for Second Temple Lebanon: Furnished: Wood for Solomon's Temple Lebanon: Great Part of, not Conquered by the Israelites Lebanon: Lofty Tops of, Covered With Snow Lebanon: Many Streams Came From Lebanon: Moses Anxious to Behold Lebanon: Northern Boundary of the Land of Canaan Lebanon: Solomon Built: Storehouses In Lebanon: Solomon Built: The House of the Forest of Lebanon: Solomon had Storage Cities In Related Terms |
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