I. What is Bozrah in the Bible?
Bozrah is a city mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the Old Testament. The name Bozrah means “sheepfold” or “sheepfold enclosure” in Hebrew. It is often associated with the land of Edom, which was located south of the Dead Sea. Bozrah is mentioned in several passages in the Bible, including the books of Genesis, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Amos.
II. Where is Bozrah located?
Bozrah was located in the region of Edom, which is present-day Jordan. It was a significant city in ancient times, known for its strategic location along trade routes and its strong fortifications. Bozrah was situated in a mountainous area, surrounded by rugged terrain that provided natural defenses against invaders.
III. Historical significance of Bozrah in the Bible
In the Bible, Bozrah is often associated with the land of Edom and the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The Edomites were traditional enemies of the Israelites, and Bozrah was a key city in their territory. The city of Bozrah is mentioned in connection with various historical events, including conflicts between the Israelites and the Edomites.
One of the most significant references to Bozrah in the Bible is found in the book of Isaiah, where it is described as a place of judgment and destruction. In Isaiah 34:6, it says, “The sword of the Lord is bathed in blood, it is covered with fat—the blood of lambs and goats, fat from the kidneys of rams. For the Lord has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom.”
IV. Bozrah in prophecy
Bozrah is also mentioned in several prophecies in the Bible, particularly in connection with the end times. In the book of Jeremiah, there is a prophecy of judgment against Edom and Bozrah for their sins and rebellion against God. Jeremiah 49:13 says, “For I have sworn by myself, declares the Lord, that Bozrah shall become a horror, a taunt, a waste, and a curse, and all her cities shall be perpetual wastes.”
In the book of Isaiah, there is a prophecy of the Messiah coming to Bozrah to deliver judgment and salvation. Isaiah 63:1 says, “Who is this who comes from Edom, in crimsoned garments from Bozrah, he who is splendid in his apparel, marching in the greatness of his strength? ‘It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.'”
V. Bozrah in the New Testament
While Bozrah is primarily mentioned in the Old Testament, there are also references to the city in the New Testament. In the book of Revelation, there is a mention of a place called “the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God” where the blood of the wicked will be trampled. Some scholars believe that this could be a reference to Bozrah, symbolizing a place of judgment and destruction.
Additionally, in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus refers to Bozrah in a parable about the judgment of the nations. Matthew 25:32-33 says, “Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.”
VI. Bozrah in modern times
Today, Bozrah is a small town in the country of Jordan, located near the ancient ruins of the city. The modern town of Bozrah is a quiet and peaceful place, far removed from its tumultuous past as a key city in the land of Edom. While the historical significance of Bozrah may have faded over time, its mention in the Bible continues to intrigue scholars and readers alike, as they seek to understand its role in the unfolding of God’s plan for humanity.