Topical Encyclopedia Bashan, a region east of the Jordan River, is renowned in biblical literature for its fertile lands and abundant pastures, making it an ideal location for raising livestock, particularly sheep. The area is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of prosperity and agricultural abundance.The land of Bashan is described as a place of rich pastures and lush landscapes, which contributed to its reputation for producing robust and healthy sheep. In Deuteronomy 32:14, the blessings of the land are highlighted: "with curds from the herd and milk from the flock, with fattened lambs and goats, with the choicest rams of Bashan and the finest kernels of wheat." This passage underscores the quality and abundance of livestock, particularly sheep, that Bashan was known for. The rams of Bashan are often cited as a standard of excellence. Ezekiel 39:18 refers to the "rams, lambs, goats, and bulls—all of them fattened animals of Bashan," emphasizing the superior quality of the livestock from this region. The imagery of well-fed and strong animals from Bashan serves as a metaphor for strength and prosperity throughout the Scriptures. Bashan's reputation for its sheep and cattle is also linked to its geographical features. The region's volcanic soil and ample rainfall provided ideal conditions for grazing, contributing to the health and growth of the flocks. This natural bounty is reflected in the biblical narrative, where Bashan is often associated with wealth and divine blessing. In Psalm 22:12, the "strong bulls of Bashan" are mentioned, further illustrating the region's association with powerful and thriving livestock. Although this particular verse refers to bulls, it reinforces the overall image of Bashan as a land of agricultural richness and vitality, where sheep and other livestock flourished. The significance of Bashan in the biblical context extends beyond its agricultural prowess. It also serves as a backdrop for various historical and theological events. The region was part of the territory conquered by the Israelites under Moses and later allocated to the half-tribe of Manasseh (Deuteronomy 3:13). This conquest and settlement highlight the importance of Bashan as a valuable and desirable land, not only for its strategic location but also for its capacity to support large herds of sheep and other livestock. In summary, Bashan is celebrated in the Bible as a land of exceptional pastures and livestock, particularly sheep. Its fertile grounds and abundant resources made it a symbol of prosperity and divine favor, frequently referenced in Scripture to convey strength, abundance, and blessing. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 32:14Butter of cows, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and you did drink the pure blood of the grape. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Nations of the South-East And ii. The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |