Bible Dictionary
Hammoth-dor
A fortified Levitical city in Naphtali, named for its hot springs. It was probably the same place as Hammath or Hammon near Tiberias.
Definition
Hammoth-dor was a fenced, Levitical city of Naphtali. Its name means “hot springs” or “dwelling of the warm springs,” and it was probably the same place as Hammath and Hammon.
Biblical Usage
Hammoth-dor is listed both among Naphtali’s cities and among the Levitical cities. The name is associated with the city’s hot springs.
Historical Background
It is identified with modern el-Hammam, south of Tiberias. Four hot springs were reported there, with temperatures reaching about 144 degrees Fahrenheit; their healing reputation was ancient.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Warm springs, a Levitical city of Naphtali (Josh. 21:32); probably Hammath in 19:35.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ham-oth-dor' (chammoth do'r; Emathdor, as also several corrupt forms): A fenced, Levitical city of Naphtali (Jos 19:35; 21:32); also named Hammen (1Ch 6:61 Hebrew). Probably the hammatu of the Karnak lists, and the hamatam of WAI, II, 53; certainly the Emmaus of Josephus, Ant, XVIII, ii, 3; BJ, IV, i, 3; Hamata of `Erubhin v. 5; Meghillah 2b, and the modern el-Hammam, 1 1/2 miles South of Tiberias. The name signifies "hot springs," and these, 4 in number, still exist. They have a temperature of 144 degree F., are salt and bitter in taste and sulfurous in smell. Considered invaluable for rheumatism, they are crowded in June and July. This health-giving reputation is of ancient date. It is mentioned in Josephus, BJ, IV, i, 3; and a coin of Tiberias of the reign of Trajan depicts Hygeia sitting on a rock beside the springs, feeding the serpent of Aesculapius. Being used for pleasure also, they were permitted to the Jew on the Sabbath, whereas had they been used only medicinally, they would have been forbidden (Babylonian Talmud, Shab 109a; compare Mt 12:10).</p><p>W. M. Christie</p>