Meaning
Mahanaim is a place east of the Jordan River whose name means “two camps.”
Biblical Usage
In Genesis 32:1-2, Jacob encounters the angels of God and names the place Mahanaim. The name is later associated with a location in the territory east of the Jordan.
After Saul’s death, Abner brings Ish-bosheth to Mahanaim. During Absalom’s rebellion, David also takes refuge there, and supporters bring supplies to him at the place.
Key References
- Genesis 32:1-2 — Jacob names the place Mahanaim after seeing the host of God.
- Joshua 13:26 — Mentions Mahanaim in the description of territorial boundaries.
- Joshua 13:30 — Includes Mahanaim in the territory associated with the children of Gad.
- 2 Samuel 2:8 — Abner brings Ish-bosheth to Mahanaim.
- 2 Samuel 17:24 — David comes to Mahanaim during Absalom’s rebellion.
- 2 Samuel 17:27 — Supporters bring supplies to David at Mahanaim.
- 1 Kings 2:8 — Shimei is identified as a man of Bahurim, in the account of David’s final instructions.
- 1 Kings 4:14 — Identifies Ahinadab as an officer in Mahanaim.
Related Terms
- Jacob — The patriarch who named Mahanaim.
- Jordan — The river that forms an important geographical boundary in the biblical narrative.
- Gilead — The region east of the Jordan.
- David — King who stayed at Mahanaim during Absalom’s rebellion.