Ezekiel 47:16
Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazarhatticon, which is by the coast of Hauran.
Ezekiel 47:16 · King James Version
Meaning
These place names mentioned in the verse from Ezekiel 47:16-17 hold significant historical and geographical importance. Hamath, known in ancient times as a powerful city in the region, is associated with the Arameans and is mentioned in various biblical passages. Berothah is believed to be a town near the river Kabur in Syria. Sibraim is thought to be a local village, possibly located between Damascus and Hamath. Hazarhatticon is believed to have been a city in the region of Hauran, known for its fertile land and agricultural richness. The verse provides a geographical description of the boundaries of the promised land, emphasizing the specific locations along the border of Damascus and Hauran. These names serve as markers to delineate the territory allotted to the tribes of Israel, highlighting the meticulous details provided in the Bible regarding land division and inheritance among the Israelites.
Theological Overview
The verse from Ezekiel 47:16 mentions several locations which may not be familiar to all readers. Hamath, Berothah, and Sibraim were cities located near Damascus and Hamath, in modern-day Syria. Hazarhatticon is thought to be located along the coast of Hauran, in southern Syria. These locations were significant during biblical times and play a role in understanding the historical context of the passage. The mention of these cities serves to provide geographical details that would have been relevant to the original audience of the text. By exploring the theological implications of these specific locations, scholars can gain insights into the cultural and political landscape of the time. Word studies on these place names can reveal the meanings behind the names themselves, shedding light on the significance of each location within the broader narrative of the Bible.
Ezekiel 47:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazer-hatticon, which is by the border of Hauran.
World English Bible
Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazer Hatticon, which is by the border of Hauran.
Douay-Rheims
Emath, Berotha, Sabarim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Emath the house of Tichon, which is by the border of Auran.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is betweene the border of Damascus, and the border of Hamath, and Hazar, Hatticon, which is by the coast of Hauran.