Garrison
Summary
A military post or fortified station placed in conquered territory to maintain control, frequently mentioned in connection with Philistine occupation of Israel.
☩Hebrew Terminology
Several Hebrew words are translated 'garrison,' all derived from a root meaning 'to stand firm.' These terms can denote a military station, a fortified post, or the soldiers who guard such positions. The same words are sometimes rendered 'pillar' or 'officer' depending on context.
☩Philistine Garrisons
At the beginning of Saul's reign, the Philistines held garrisons throughout Israel, maintaining their dominance over the land. Jonathan's attack on the Philistine garrison at Geba sparked the war that began to free Israel from Philistine control. These military posts were strategic positions enabling an occupying power to suppress any uprising.
☩David's Garrisons
When David expanded his kingdom, he placed garrisons in Syria and Edom to maintain control over these conquered territories. This demonstrated his establishment of Israelite dominance over surrounding nations, reversing the earlier pattern of foreign occupation.
Related Verses19 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Garrison," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.George Morrish, "Garrison," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 3.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Garrison," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).