Azal
“Adjoining or at the side”
Summary
A place near Jerusalem mentioned in Zechariah's prophecy as the limit to which a great valley will extend during the Day of the Lord.
☩Prophetic Context
Azal is mentioned only in Zechariah 14:5 as the limit to which the 'ravine' or cleft of the Mount of Olives will extend when 'Jehovah shall go forth to fight.' The prophet envisions the mountain being split in two, creating a great valley for escape. The Hebrew name means 'adjoining' or 'near the city,' suggesting the valley will reach up to the city gates to enable citizens fleeing to escape.
☩Location Theories
The exact location of Azal is uncertain. Eusebius placed it in a plain not far from Diocaesarea. Some scholars suggest it is simply an appellative meaning 'at the side' or foot of Mount Olivet rather than a proper place name. Others conjecture it may be the Beth-ezel of Micah 1:11. The name may be the same as 'Azel' in Hebrew, appearing in pause form.
Related Verses1 mention
Zechariah· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Azal," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Azal," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 3.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Azal," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).