Oak Of Tabor
LocationsGeographical Setting
A specific landmark or grove associated with the Mount Tabor region in ancient Israel, mentioned in the narrative of Saul's anointing.
What is the meaning of Oak Of Tabor in the Bible?
The phrase 'oak of Tabor' (Hebrew: elon Tabor) appears in 1 Samuel 10:3 within the account of Saul's journey to Gibeah. While the King James Version translates the Hebrew word 'elon' as 'oak,' other translations and marginal notes suggest 'terebinth' or 'plain,' reflecting ongoing scholarly discussion regarding the precise botanical or topographical reference intended by the original text.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the ambiguity of this landmark aids readers in visualizing the specific route Saul traveled and the rural setting where he encountered the signs confirming his kingship, grounding the biblical narrative in its geographical context.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.