What was Ashteroth Karnaim?
Ashteroth Karnaim was an ancient city located in the region of Bashan, east of the Jordan River, and is most notably mentioned in Genesis 14:5 as one of the cities conquered during a campaign by a coalition of Mesopotamian kings led by Chedorlaomer. The city’s name in Hebrew, עַשְׁתְּרֹת קַרְנַיִם (‘Ashterot Qarnayim), means “Ashteroth of the Two Horns” or “Ashteroth of Twin Peaks.” The name likely reflects a connection to the Canaanite goddess Astarte (Ashtoreth), often depicted with horns or associated with fertility and power, as well as to the topography of the region.
Ashteroth Karnaim was situated in the territory of the Rephaim, a group of people described in Scripture as giants or mighty men, and was associated with Og, king of Bashan (Deuteronomy 1:4; Joshua 12:4). It later became part of the inheritance of the half-tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 13:31).
Biblical References
- Genesis 14:5 – The city is mentioned as one of the places attacked by Chedorlaomer and his allies during their campaign to subdue rebellious kings.
- Deuteronomy 1:4 – Refers to Og, king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashteroth and Edrei.
- Joshua 12:4; 13:12, 31 – Reaffirms the city’s association with King Og and its later inheritance by Israel.
- 1 Chronicles 6:71 – Lists Ashteroth as one of the cities given to the Gershonite Levites.
Historical and Geographical Background
Ashteroth Karnaim lay in the region of Bashan, an area known for its fertile plains, strong fortresses, and large inhabitants. In ancient times, it was a center of Canaanite religion, dedicated to Ashtoreth (Astarte), the fertility goddess who was a key figure in pagan worship. The “two horns” in the name may also refer to either two hills or twin cities.
The city’s significance during the time of Abraham is evident in its inclusion among the Rephaim strongholds destroyed by the eastern coalition of kings. The conquest of this city by Chedorlaomer’s forces demonstrates its political and military importance in the ancient Near East.
What Happened in the Bible
In Genesis 14:5, Ashteroth Karnaim is listed as one of the locations where the four-king alliance led by Chedorlaomer struck down the Rephaim. This campaign was part of a punitive expedition against a rebellion by five kings in the Jordan Valley, including the king of Sodom. Chedorlaomer’s campaign subdued various powerful peoples along the way, including the Rephaim in Ashteroth Karnaim.
Later, this region becomes part of the inheritance of the people of Israel. Moses defeated Og of Bashan, whose capital included Ashteroth, and gave the land to the half-tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 13:31). This marked a transition from pagan dominance to covenant inheritance.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
Ashteroth Karnaim represents more than just an ancient city; it serves as a symbol of spiritual conflict and God’s dominion over pagan powers. Its early association with false worship and giant-like enemies shows the deep corruption of the land before Israel’s arrival. Yet God’s people, by His promise and power, eventually possessed the land, showing His authority over the spiritual darkness entrenched in the world.
For believers today, Ashteroth Karnaim reminds us that God is sovereign over every power and place. The strongholds of sin and false worship will not prevail against God’s plan for redemption. Like the Israelites who overcame fortified cities, Christians are called to trust in God’s strength to overcome the spiritual battles of this world.
How the Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Ashteroth Karnaim, as a former center of pagan power that was ultimately brought under God‘s dominion, foreshadows Christ‘s triumph over sin, death, and the principalities of darkness. Where once idolatry reigned, God brought salvation and restoration through His covenant people.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate conqueror of the “giants” that haunt humanity—sin, death, and Satan. Just as Chedorlaomer‘s campaign subdued physical giants, and Israel later overcame pagan cities through God’s power, so Jesus brings spiritual victory for all who believe. He redeems the darkest places and makes them part of His kingdom.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Conflict Between Kingdoms
Ashteroth Karnaim highlights the age-old struggle between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. The city stood as a pagan stronghold until God’s purposes prevailed.
2. Divine Sovereignty
Even distant, foreign cities fall within God’s redemptive plan. Nothing is outside of His reach, and no land or power is too far gone for redemption.
3. Inheritance and Promise
Ashteroth Karnaim was later given to the Israelites as part of their inheritance. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God fulfilling His promises to His people, even in places once ruled by opposition.
4. Victory Through God’s Power
The defeat of mighty enemies in regions like Ashteroth Karnaim showcases God‘s power to give His people victory against overwhelming odds.
Reflection Questions
- How does God’s conquest of strongholds like Ashteroth Karnaim strengthen your faith in His sovereignty today?
- In what ways do you see spiritual “giants” or strongholds in your life that need to be surrendered to God?
- How does the transformation of pagan cities into part of Israel’s inheritance illustrate the gospel’s power to redeem?
- What does the example of Ashteroth Karnaim teach us about God’s justice and grace working together?
- How can the assurance of Jesus’ ultimate victory help you face present struggles with faith and confidence?
Ashteroth Karnaim serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how dark or entrenched the opposition, God’s kingdom will prevail. Its story is a piece of the larger biblical mosaic, pointing forward to the reign of Christ who subdues every enemy and brings all things under His feet.