Thursday, August 30, 2007

Symbolism Or Mere Coincidence?

In Genesis 50:1-14, we see where the embalmed body of Jacob was taken from Egypt to Hebron for burial. Probably due to the hostility of Philistine and Amorite tribes, the direct route ("Way To The Land Of The Philistines" or "Way Of The Sea") was avoided. The funeral procession passed around the southern end of the Dead Sea, through the land of Moab, and crossed the Jordan at Abel-mizraim opposite Jericho. Now, is this a forerunner of what the nation of Israel would do in a few centuries (entering into the Promised Land, etc.) or is it a coincidence? Maybe...maybe not.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well those of us who [jest]LOVE JESUS[/jest] and believe in Providence would say that there is no such thing as coincidences. ;)

R. L. Vaughn said...

Haven't you committed the fallacy of the false dilemma (or whatever they call it)? Couldn't there be another answer?

But I'm with Stephanie -- is no such thing as coincidences.

This is an intriguing trek to look into. The routes are likely very similar. I've never thought of that.

R. L. Vaughn said...

That should be "There is no such thing as coincidences."

Bro. Matt said...

Well, I'm not trying to actually enforce a dilemma, but you're probably right. And yes, there could be other answers. Really, I'm just wondering out loud.

Also, I have never thought of it before either, but it is quite intriguing. And I discovered this while studying/teaching Bible Geography. Can you believe it -- the teacher learned something too!!!