Bible Dictionaries
Nebo

Holman Bible Dictionary

(nee' boh) Place and divine name meaning, “height.” 1. Babylonian god of speech, writing, and water. Worship of Nebo was popular during the Neo-Babylonian era (612-539 B.C.). Isaiah mocked parades featuring the idol of Nebo (Isaiah 46:1 ).

2. Moabite city located southwest of Heshbon. The tribes Reuben and Gad requested the area around Nebo for their flocks (Numbers 32:2-3 ). It was held by Israel until recaptured by King Mesha about 850 B.C. 3. Town reinhabited by exiles returning from Babylon (Ezra 2:29 ). The site has been identified with Nob. 4. Mountain about twelve miles east of the mouth of the Jordan River from which Moses viewed the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 32:49 ). It rises over 4000 feet above the Dead Sea and gives an excellent view of the southwest, west, and as far north as Mount Hermon. Israel captured the area around Mount Nebo as they marched toward Canaan. They camped in the area of Mount Nebo opposite Jericho when the Balaam incident occurred (Numbers 22-24 ). During the period of the judges it was the possession of Eglon of Moab. David recaptured the area (2 Samuel 8:2 ), and it remained a part of Israel until Mesha rebelled and took control about 850 B.C.