Cave
“Cavern or den”
Summary
Natural or artificial caverns abundant in the limestone geology of Syria and Palestine, used for dwelling, refuge, burial, and storage.
☩Geological Abundance
The geological formation of Syria, consisting chiefly of limestone, is highly favorable to the production of caves. Carbonate of lime in water erodes the rock, creating subterranean hollows of varying dimensions. Some caves are immense—Strabo mentions one near Damascus capable of holding 4,000 men. Tavernier speaks of a grotto between Aleppo and Bir that could hold nearly 3,000 horses. Many caves were artificially enlarged and adapted for shelter and defense.
☩Notable Biblical Caves
Scripture mentions several significant caves: the cave of Machpelah where Abraham buried Sarah and where the patriarchs were interred; the cave at Makkedah where the five Amorite kings fled from Joshua; the cave of Adullam where David hid from Saul with his 400 followers; the cave at Engedi where David spared Saul's life; the cave where Obadiah hid 100 prophets from Jezebel; and the cave at Horeb where Elijah heard the still small voice.
☩Uses of Caves
Caves served multiple purposes in biblical times: as dwelling places (the Horites were named from their cave-dwelling); as places of refuge from enemies; as stables for animals; as cisterns for water storage; as folds for flocks; and most importantly, as burial places. The tomb of Lazarus at Bethany was a cave with a stone placed at its entrance, as was the tomb of Jesus. Rock-hewn tombs were of various designs, some with antechambers leading to inner burial spaces.
Related Verses35 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Cave," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Cave," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Cave," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
- 4.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Cave," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).