Aphaerema
LocationsGeographical Setting
Aphairema was a district in Samaria annexed by Judea under Demetrius I Soter.
What is the meaning of Aphaerema in the Bible?
Aphairema was one of three districts taken from Samaria and added to Judea by Demetrius Nicator, as recorded in 1 Maccabees 11:34. It is also mentioned in Antiquities XIII, iv, 9.
SIGNIFICANCE
The division of Aphairema highlights the complex political dynamics between Samaria and Judea during the Hellenistic period.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Aphaerema 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 Aphaerema in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Aphaerema clarify?
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
"Aphaerema." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/aphaerema/