What was Sharon in the Bible?

Sharon, known in Hebrew as שָׁרוֹן (Sharon), is a region mentioned several times in the Bible, notable for its beauty and fertility. The name Sharon means “to be shapely” or “to please,” reflecting the region’s natural allure. Sharon comprises two distinct areas in ancient Israel, each with its significance and biblical references.

Sharon Near Mount Hermon

Sharon near Mount Hermon is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 5:16: “And they dwelt in Gilead in Bashan, and in her towns, and in all the suburbs of Sharon, upon their borders.” This region was known for its lush pastures and abundant vegetation, symbolizing God’s blessings and provision for His people. Located along the Mediterranean coast, it served as a fertile ground for grazing and agriculture.

The Plain of Sharon

The Plain of Sharon is more frequently mentioned in the Bible, associated with beauty, fertility, and God’s restorative promises. Several key passages highlight its significance:

1. 1 Chronicles 27:29: “And over the herds that fed in Sharon was Shitrai the Sharonite: and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of Adlai.” This verse indicates that Sharon was a prime grazing area, managed by Shitrai the Sharonite, showcasing its agricultural importance.
2. Song of Solomon 2:1: “I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys.” In this poetic book, Sharon symbolizes beauty and fertility. The bride’s comparison to a lily among thorns emphasizes her uniqueness and loveliness, using the fertile plains of Sharon as a metaphor for her exceptional qualities.
3. Isaiah 33:9: “The earth mourns and languishes: Lebanon is ashamed and hewn down: Sharon is like a desert; and Bashan and Carmel shake off their fruits.” Here, the prophet Isaiah laments the devastation that will come upon the land, including Sharon. This highlights the consequences of Israel’s disobedience and the subsequent desolation of even the most fertile regions.
4. Isaiah 35:2: “It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God.” Isaiah prophesies the future glory of Zion, comparing it to the splendor of Sharon. This passage offers hope and reassurance of God’s restoration and blessings.
5. Isaiah 65:10: “And Sharon shall be a fold of flocks, and the valley of Achor a place for the herds to lie down in, for my people that have sought me.” Sharon is depicted as a place where the people of Israel will find pasture and rest, symbolizing peace and provision for those who seek God.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

God’s Provision and Blessings

Sharon’s fertility and beauty symbolize God’s provision and blessings. Modern Christians can learn that God is the ultimate provider, who ensures our needs are met when we trust in Him. Just as Sharon was a lush and fertile region, believers are assured of God’s abundant blessings in their lives.

Restoration and Hope

The prophecies in Isaiah concerning Sharon emphasize God’s power to restore and renew. Despite the desolation due to disobedience, God’s promise of restoration remains steadfast. This serves as a powerful reminder for Christians that no matter the current state of despair, God can bring about renewal and hope.

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Attention to Creation

The detailed descriptions of Sharon in the Bible reflect God’s attention to creation and His care for the land and its people. This meticulous care demonstrates God’s love for His creation. Modern Christians can find comfort in knowing that God cares deeply for every aspect of their lives, just as He cared for the fertile plains of Sharon.

Assurance of God’s Promises

Sharon’s transformation from desolation to a place of beauty and abundance showcases God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Believers today can trust in God’s promises of restoration, peace, and provision, confident that He is faithful and loving.

Connection to Jesus Christ

The Rose of Sharon

In the Song of Solomon, the bride is referred to as the “rose of Sharon,” a metaphor for beauty and love. This imagery foreshadows the beauty and perfection of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the bridegroom in the New Testament. Christ’s love for the Church, His bride, is pure and sacrificial, akin to the beauty of Sharon.

Christ’s Restorative Power

Isaiah’s prophecies about Sharon’s future glory point to Christ’s redemptive work. Jesus came to restore and redeem what was lost, bringing hope and salvation to humanity. Just as Sharon was promised restoration, Christ offers new life and restoration to all who believe in Him.

Conclusion

The biblical accounts of Sharon, both near Mount Hermon and the Plain of Sharon, provide rich lessons and profound theological insights. Sharon symbolizes God’s provision, beauty, and the hope of restoration. For modern Christians, it serves as a reminder of God’s unwavering love, His attention to detail, and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Through these lessons, believers can draw closer to God and understand the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who brings ultimate restoration and hope.