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Abilene

Locations
Modern Location Southern Syria, near Damascus
Coordinates 33.5138, 36.2765

Geographical Setting

Abilene was a tetrarchy in the Roman province of Syria, located north of Damascus and west of the Golan Heights.

What is the meaning of Abilene in the Bible?

Abilene was a tetrarchy mentioned in Luke 3:1 as the territory ruled by Lysanias during the ministry of John the Baptist. The region derived its name from its chief town, Abila, which was situated near Damascus.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Abilene helps clarify the political landscape of the region during the early first century, confirming the historical existence of Lysanias as a local ruler and providing geographical context for the narrative in Luke.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Abilene (located near modern Southern Syria, near Damascus) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Abilene in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Abilene clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: Luke 3:1

Related Topics

WashpotHazar-EnanTappuahNekebSolomon's PorchUz (2)

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Abilene." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/abilene/
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