Abstract
This article considers Mazar's theory that Geba, mentioned in the account of Josiah's reform (2 Kgs. 23:8) should be identified as Kh. et-Tell on mount Ephraim. This theory enjoyed wide support, mainly among Israeli scholars, and some have suggested that this Geba on mount Ephraim also figures in the list of cities of Benjamin (Josh. 18:24). By contrast, in this article I would like to show that at no time throughout the history of the first Temple did Judah's northern border extend beyond the environs of Bethel. Such was the case in the Persian period too. No biblical evidence whatsoever is found for the existence of a settlement called Geba on mount Ephraim, and great historical and geographical logic lies in restoring to Geba in Benjamin region the honor it deserves.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 345-361 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | Revue Biblique |
Issue number | 3 |
State | Published - 2004 |