Topical Encyclopedia Lebanon, a region frequently mentioned in the Bible, is renowned for its majestic mountains and lush forests. The name "Lebanon" is derived from the Semitic root "lbn," meaning "white," likely referring to the snow-capped peaks of the Lebanon mountain range. This natural feature is a significant aspect of the biblical landscape, symbolizing strength, beauty, and majesty.Geographical and Historical Context Lebanon is located to the north of Israel and west of Syria, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. The Lebanon mountain range runs parallel to the coast, with its highest peak, Qurnat as Sawda', reaching over 10,000 feet. The region's climate and topography have contributed to its dense forests, particularly the famous cedars of Lebanon. Biblical References The cedars of Lebanon are frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength and durability. In Psalm 92:12, the righteous are compared to these mighty trees: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon." The cedars were highly prized for their quality wood, used in the construction of significant biblical structures, including Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:6-10). Lebanon's mountains are also noted for their beauty and grandeur. In Song of Solomon 4:8, the bridegroom invites his bride, "Come with me from Lebanon, my bride, come with me from Lebanon. Descend from the crest of Amana, from the top of Senir, the summit of Hermon." This passage highlights the romantic and awe-inspiring nature of Lebanon's peaks. Symbolism and Theological Significance In biblical literature, Lebanon often symbolizes majesty and divine creation. The prophet Isaiah uses Lebanon to illustrate God's power and glory: "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" (Isaiah 35:2). This imagery underscores the belief that the natural world reflects God's magnificence. Lebanon's snow-capped mountains also serve as a metaphor for purity and transcendence. In Jeremiah 18:14, the prophet asks rhetorically, "Does the snow of Lebanon ever leave the rocky slopes?" This question implies the constancy and purity of God's creation, contrasting with the fickleness of human behavior. Cultural and Economic Importance Throughout history, Lebanon's resources have been vital to the surrounding regions. The cedars were not only used in Israel but also traded with neighboring nations, contributing to Lebanon's economic significance. The region's natural beauty and resources have made it a place of interest and conflict throughout biblical and post-biblical history. Conclusion Lebanon, with its towering mountains and snow-covered peaks, holds a prominent place in biblical narrative and symbolism. Its natural features are not only geographical landmarks but also serve as powerful metaphors for strength, purity, and divine majesty. The biblical portrayal of Lebanon reflects a deep appreciation for the Creator's handiwork, as seen through the lens of the ancient world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 18:14Will a man leave the snow of Lebanon which comes from the rock of the field? or shall the cold flowing waters that come from another place be forsaken? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Lessons from Nature Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Reaction against Egypt Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: Resources What are the cedars of Lebanon the Bible mentions? | GotQuestions.orgDo the news reports of rivers turning blood red have anything to do with the end times? | GotQuestions.org Shia and Sunni Islam - what are the differences? | 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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