from the same as נָקֹד in the denominative sense of herding (compare נֹקֵד); fold; Makkedah, a place in Palestine; Makkedah.
Transliteration:Maqqêdâh
Pronunciation:mak-kay-daw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Maqqêdâh (מַקֵּדָה), Strong's number `{{H4719}}`, functions exclusively as a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location in ancient Canaan. Its etymological root is closely associated with נָקֹד (naqod), meaning "spotted" (as in livestock, e.g., [[Genesis 30:32]]), and נֹקֵד (noqed), meaning "shepherd" or "sheep breeder" (e.g., [[Amos 1:1]]). This etymological connection suggests that the name Maqqêdâh likely refers to a place known for its pastoral activities, perhaps a "fold" or an enclosure for sheep and goats. Thus, while primarily a toponym, its underlying semantic range points to an agricultural or herding community, implying a place of sustenance and perhaps even refuge for livestock.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Maqqêdâh appears predominantly in the book of Joshua, playing a significant role in the narrative of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. Its primary occurrences are found in [[Joshua 10]] and [[Joshua 12]].
In [[Joshua 10]], Maqqêdâh is central to a pivotal event in the southern campaign. Following the miraculous victory over the Amorite kings at Gibeon, the five kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon flee and take refuge in a cave at Maqqêdâh ([[Joshua 10:16-17]]). Joshua, having pursued them, orders the cave entrance to be blocked with large stones, trapping them inside ([[Joshua 10:18]]). After completing the rout of their armies, Joshua returns to Maqqêdâh, orders the kings to be brought out, and executes them, hanging their bodies on trees until evening ([[Joshua 10:22-27]]). This act serves as a public display of divine judgment and a warning to other Canaanite rulers. Immediately following this, Joshua and all Israel proceed to conquer the city of Maqqêdâh itself, utterly destroying it and its inhabitants, leaving no survivors ([[Joshua 10:28]]).
The city is subsequently listed among the thirty-one kings and their cities defeated by Joshua in the comprehensive summary of the conquest ([[Joshua 12:16]]). The repeated mention of Maqqêdâh in these accounts underscores its strategic importance as a stronghold and a symbol of the resistance that Israel encountered and overcame through divine aid. The cave at Maqqêdâh becomes a particularly iconic feature, serving as both a temporary refuge and ultimately a place of execution for the Amorite kings.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological links of Maqqêdâh to נָקֹד (naqod, `{{H5344}}`, "spotted") and נֹקֵד (noqed, `{{H5349}}`, "shepherd" or "sheep breeder") connect it to the broader biblical themes of pastoral life and the land as a source of sustenance. While Maqqêdâh itself is a proper noun, its narrative context in Joshua brings it into relation with several crucial concepts:
* **Conquest:** It is one of the many cities captured by Israel, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promise of the land.
* **Divine Judgment:** The execution of the five kings at Maqqêdâh is a stark demonstration of God's judgment against the wicked inhabitants of Canaan.
* **The Cave (מְעָרָה, me'arah, `{{H4631}}`):** This natural feature is central to the Maqqêdâh narrative in [[Joshua 10]], serving as a place of initial concealment and ultimate exposure for the kings.
* **Cities of the Southern Campaign:** Maqqêdâh is often mentioned alongside other significant cities like Libnah, Lachish, Eglon, Hebron, and Debir, all of which fall to Israel during this phase of the conquest. These form a network of strategic locations in the land of Judah.
### Theological Significance
The events at Maqqêdâh carry profound theological significance within the narrative of the Pentateuch and Joshua.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The swift and decisive defeat of the five Amorite kings at Maqqêdâh is a powerful testament to God's absolute sovereignty over nations and His unwavering commitment to execute judgment upon those who oppose His will and violate His moral order. The futility of the kings' attempt to hide in the cave underscores that no one can escape God's reach or His appointed time of reckoning.
2. **Covenant Fulfillment:** The capture and destruction of Maqqêdâh, along with other Canaanite cities, represent the tangible fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, that their descendants would inherit the land of Canaan ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18-21]]). It demonstrates God's faithfulness to His word.
3. **Joshua as God's Instrument:** Joshua's actions at Maqqêdâh—from blocking the cave to executing the kings and destroying the city—are presented as direct obedience to divine command. He functions as God's chosen instrument for carrying out the divine plan of conquest and judgment, emphasizing the importance of obedient leadership in God's redemptive history.
4. **A Symbol of Overthrown Resistance:** Maqqêdâh becomes a symbol of the overthrown resistance of the Canaanite inhabitants, illustrating that no human power can ultimately stand against the Lord of Hosts. The public display of the kings' bodies serves as a chilling reminder of the consequences of defying the God of Israel.
### Summary
Maqqêdâh (מַקֵּדָה, `{{H4719}}`) is a significant geographical location in ancient Canaan, likely named for its association with pastoral activities. Its primary biblical importance lies in the book of Joshua, particularly in [[Joshua 10]], where it serves as the dramatic setting for the capture and execution of the five Amorite kings who had warred against Gibeon. The cave at Maqqêdâh becomes a focal point of this narrative, symbolizing both a desperate attempt at evasion and the inescapable nature of divine judgment. The subsequent conquest of the city of Maqqêdâh itself further solidifies its role as a key site in the Israelite appropriation of the promised land. Theologically, Maqqêdâh stands as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty, His faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises, and His righteous judgment against the inhabitants of the land, all executed through His chosen servant, Joshua.
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