of Michmash is the modern Arab village of Jaba, which preserves the
biblical site of Geba. A Levitical city in the tribal territory of
Benjamin, Geba was fortified by Asa during his war with Baasha (1 Kgs
15:22). During the time of Josiah, Geba was apparently the northernmost
city in Judah, as the king destroyed the high places "from Geba to
Beersheba" (2 Kgs 23:8). Because of the present occupation, the site has
not been excavated.
The hill country is deeply cut by deep canyons (wadis) that run
east-west. These significantly restrict traffic to the ridges above the
wadis, making passage north-south difficult except on the central
watershed ridge. One exception to this is this "pass" in the Wadi
Suwenit - a broad place in the canyon where passage is easy.
Consequently this route is noted in Scripture on several occasions.
Isaiah the prophet speaks about an invasion from the north that moves
by Michmash, across "the pass," and on to Geba, Ramah, Gibeah, and
Jerusalem (Isa 10:28-32).
The pass is also mentioned in connection with Jonathan's attack on the
Philistines (1 Sam 14). Saul's son surprised the Philistine garrison by
not coming across the pass, but instead going around and climbing up
and down steep cliffs. These cliffs were named Seneh and Bozez
(scholars debate the meanings of these words). When the Philistines saw
Jonathan and his armorbearer climbing up, they called to them to
continue, thus signaling to Jonathan that God was with them. Jonathan's
defeat of this contingent led to a national victory that day.
Michmash (LoveToKnow) Good encyclopedia article providing
introductory information and explaining the
site's strategic importance.
Michmash - Location Profile (Walking in
Their Sandals) Describes the site's location and historical
significance. Also provides some pictures of the area here.
Michmash Bible Study (International
Standard Bible Encyclopedia) Briefly discusses the biblical passages
relating to Michmash and describes the geography of
The Battle of Michmash (Larry Wood) A survey of the biblical story with a
nice map illustrating the events of
1 Samuel 13-14.