1 kings 4:12 - Baana the son of Ahilud, in Taanach and Megiddo, and all Beth Shean which is beside Zarethan, beneath Jezreel, from Beth Shean to Abel Meholah, as far as beyond Jokmeam;

Generated Verse: 1 kings 4:12

What does "1 kings 4:12" mean?


This verse from 1 Kings 4:12 describes the geographic region governed by Baana, the son of Ahilud. Here's a breakdown:

"Baana the son of Ahilud": This is the name and patronymic of the government official in question. He's one of Solomon's district governors.
"in Taanach and Megiddo": These are two strategically important cities. Controlling these cities meant controlling key trade routes and military access.
"and all Beth Shean which is beside Zarethan, beneath Jezreel": Beth Shean (modern Beisan) was another vital city, located in the fertile Jezreel Valley. Zarethan and Jezreel were nearby locations further defining the area. "Beneath Jezreel" likely refers to the topographical relationship – Beth Shean was lower in elevation than Jezreel.
"from Beth Shean to Abel Meholah": This defines the southern extent of Baana's territory. Abel Meholah was a city further down the Jordan Valley.
"as far as beyond Jokmeam": This sets a possible boundary or point of reference. It suggests the territory extended past Jokmeam.

In essence, the verse defines a specific administrative district under Solomon's rule. Baana, son of Ahilud, was responsible for governing a strategically and agriculturally important region centered around the Jezreel Valley, including key cities like Taanach, Megiddo, and Beth Shean, and extending southwards towards Abel Meholah, past Jokmeam.

The verse is part of a larger list in 1 Kings 4 that details Solomon's system of dividing the kingdom into districts, each responsible for providing food and resources to the royal court for one month of the year. The mention of specific cities and geographical features helps to understand the boundaries and importance of each district. This was a deliberate administrative strategy designed to consolidate royal power and control resources efficiently.

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