Bashan
LocationsGeographical Setting
Bashan was an ancient region located east of the Jordan River, characterized by its fertile pastures and fortified cities.
What is the meaning of Bashan in the Bible?
Bashan was a territory situated east of the Jordan River, extending from the Gilead border to the slopes of Mount Hermon, encompassing fertile plains, wooded hills, and rocky terrain. The region was historically noted for its agricultural productivity, particularly wheat and livestock, as well as its fortified urban centers.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the geography of Bashan clarifies the narrative of Israel's conquest, specifically the defeat of King Og and the subsequent allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh, while also providing context for prophetic passages that use the region's fertility as a symbol of divine blessing or judgment.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Bashan in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Bashan clarify?
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.