the same as מָדוֹן; Madon, a place in Palestine; Madon.
Transliteration:Mâdôwn
Pronunciation:maw-dohn'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4068}}` (Mâdôwn) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition explicitly states it is "the same as" `{{H4067}}`. This is crucial, as `{{H4067}}` (mādôn) is a common noun meaning "contention, strife, quarrel, dispute." Therefore, while `{{H4068}}` itself denotes a specific location, its etymological root strongly suggests a place historically associated with conflict, dispute, or perhaps named after a significant quarrel or battle. As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed to this particular location in ancient Canaan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Madon appears twice in the book of Joshua, both times in the context of Israel's conquest of Canaan:
* [[Joshua 11:1]]: "And it came to pass, when Jabin king of Hazor had heard thereof, that he sent unto Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph,"
* [[Joshua 12:19]]: "the king of Madon, one; the king of Hazor, one;"
In [[Joshua 11:1]], Madon is identified as one of the key northern Canaanite city-states whose king, Jobab, formed a powerful coalition with Jabin, king of Hazor, against Joshua and the Israelites. This alliance represented a significant military challenge, bringing together chariots and a multitude of warriors. The subsequent defeat of this confederacy at the Waters of Merom, detailed in [[Joshua 11:5-9]], marked a decisive victory for Israel in the northern campaign. [[Joshua 12:19]] lists Madon among the thirty-one kings defeated by Joshua, underscoring its status as a significant entity within the Canaanite resistance. The city itself, though its precise location is debated by scholars, was clearly a prominent stronghold in the northern territories.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant related word is `{{H4067}}` (mādôn), the common noun for "strife" or "contention." This etymological connection invites reflection on whether the city of Madon was known for its contentious nature, was the site of historical disputes, or perhaps was named prophetically given the intense conflict that would ultimately engulf it during the Israelite conquest. Other related concepts include the broader theme of divine judgment upon the Canaanite nations, the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham regarding the land ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18]]), and the nature of warfare in the ancient Near East as depicted in the biblical narrative. The defeat of Madon is part of the larger narrative of God's provision for His people and the establishment of their inheritance in the land.
### Theological Significance
As a conquered Canaanite city, Madon's theological significance is primarily derived from its role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Israel. The defeat of Madon and its king, Jobab, serves as a powerful testament to:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Faithfulness:** God had promised the land to Abraham's descendants, and the conquest of Madon, along with other Canaanite strongholds, demonstrates His absolute power to fulfill His word, even against formidable opposition.
2. **Judgment on Idolatry:** The Canaanite nations, including Madon, were deeply entrenched in idolatrous practices and moral corruption. Their defeat was part of God's righteous judgment upon wickedness, clearing the land for a people who were to worship Him exclusively.
3. **The Establishment of Israel's Inheritance:** Madon's fall contributed to the secure establishment of Israel in the promised land, a crucial step in the nation's development and its role as a light to the nations. The "strife" (mādôn) associated with the city's name was ultimately resolved by divine intervention, leading to the possession of the land.
### Summary
`{{H4068}}` (Mâdôwn) refers to an important Canaanite city-state in the northern region, whose king, Jobab, was part of a major coalition defeated by Joshua. The name Madon is etymologically linked to the Hebrew word for "strife" or "contention" (`{{H4067}}`), possibly reflecting its character or a historical event. Its inclusion in the conquest narrative of Joshua underscores God's faithfulness in delivering the Promised Land to Israel, His righteous judgment against idolatry, and His sovereign power over all earthly kingdoms. The defeat of Madon stands as a historical marker of God's decisive action in establishing His people in their inheritance.
TRV