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Aphik

Locations
Modern Location Tel Afek (near Antipatris) or Aphek (near Sidon)
Coordinates 32.0333, 34.8333

Geographical Setting

Aphek was a strategic Canaanite city-state mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, associated with military conflicts between the Israelites and the Philistines.

What is the meaning of Aphik in the Bible?

Aphek denotes at least two distinct locations in biblical geography: one in the territory of Asher near Sidon, and another in the plain of Sharon near Antipatris, both serving as sites of significant ancient military engagements.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying the specific Aphek involved in a narrative clarifies the geopolitical context of Israelite conflicts, distinguishing between northern campaigns against Canaanite coalitions and southern struggles with the Philistine hegemony.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Aphik (located near modern Tel Afek (near Antipatris) or Aphek (near Sidon)) 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 Aphik in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Aphik 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

"Aphik." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/aphik/
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