Aram-Maacah
LocationsGeographical Setting
Aram-Ma'akah was a small territorial entity in the ancient Near East, identified in biblical texts as a vassal state under the Kingdom of Damascus.
What is the meaning of Aram-Maacah in the Bible?
Aram-Ma'akah was a minor polity in Syria, referenced in 2 Samuel 10:6 and 1 Chronicles 19:6 as part of the coalition assembled by the Ammonites against King David.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Aram-Ma'akah clarifies the complex political alliances and military strategies depicted in the David narratives, showing how smaller regional powers interacted with major kingdoms like Israel and Damascus.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Aram-Maacah (located near modern Likely in the Hauran region of southern Syria or northern Jordan) 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 Aram-Maacah in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Aram-Maacah clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
2 Samuel 10:61 Chronicles 19:6
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
"Aram-Maacah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/arammaacah/