Definition: And Baalath, and Tadmor in the wilderness, in the land,
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Kings 9:18. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious part of the Bible! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a location that is considered to be a place of worship for a god – likely associated with the ancient Mesopotamian deity, Enlil. Let’s unpack each word: “Baalath” : This is an old Hebrew word meaning "the land of the east" or "the land of the west." It suggests a region in the Middle East, specifically near modern-day Lebanon and Syria. “Tadmor” : This is also an ancient Hebrew word, and it means “the land of the wilderness.” It’s often translated as “the wild lands” or “the desolate places.” So, putting it all together: The verse describes a location called "Baalath" and "Tadmor," which are both considered to be in the wilderness – a place where a god might have a special presence. What’s the Significance? This is a significant detail because it's a key part of the story of the Old Testament, specifically within the Book of Kings. It speaks to a period when God was establishing a covenant with Israel and establishing a place for worship in the region of Lebanon and Syria. Important Note: It’s crucial to understand that this is a description of a location, not necessarily a literal place where a god exists. The purpose of the verse was likely symbolic – it highlights God's sovereignty and control over His people and their land. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: Why is this place important in biblical history? What does it tell us about the relationship between God and Israel?