What was Ezion-geber in the Bible?
Ezion-geber is a place mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. It is identified as a port city located on the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, near the modern city of Aqaba in Jordan. The name Ezion-geber means the giant’s backbone in Hebrew. This city played a significant role in Israel’s history, particularly during the reigns of King Solomon and King Jehoshaphat.
Ezion-geber is first mentioned in Numbers 33:35, where the Israelites camped there during their journey through the wilderness. It is also referenced in Deuteronomy 2:8 as the place where the Israelites passed by as they traveled towards the Promised Land. Additionally, in 1 Kings 9:26 and 2 Chronicles 8:17, it is noted that King Solomon built a fleet of ships at Ezion-geber, which were used for trade and exploration.
Furthermore, Ezion-geber is mentioned in 1 Kings 22:48 and 2 Chronicles 20:36 in the context of joint naval expeditions with King Ahaziah of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah. These expeditions aimed to bring back gold from Ophir, showcasing the strategic importance of Ezion-geber as a trading port.
From a biblical perspective, the significance of Ezion-geber lies in its historical and geographical context within the biblical narrative. It serves as a tangible reminder of the Israelites’ journey, the prosperity of Solomon’s reign, and the alliances formed during the time of the divided kingdom.
In conclusion, Ezion-geber was a crucial port city in ancient Israel, known for its maritime activities, trade connections, and strategic importance in the region. Its mention in the Bible underscores the historical accuracy and reliability of the biblical accounts, providing valuable insights into the socio-political landscape of the ancient Near East.
References:
– Numbers 33:35
– Deuteronomy 2:8
– 1 Kings 9:26
– 1 Kings 22:48
– 2 Chronicles 8:17
– 2 Chronicles 20:36