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Ataroth

Locations
Modern Location Ataroth of the Reubenites: likely near modern 'Ataruz, Jordan. Ataroth of Ephraim: likely near modern 'Atara, West Bank. Ataroth of Benjamin: likely near modern 'Atara, West Bank.
Coordinates Ataroth of Reuben: 31.8500, 35.7500. Ataroth of Ephraim/Benjamin: 31.9500, 35.2500.

Geographical Setting

Ataroth denotes three distinct biblical settlements associated with the tribes of Reuben, Ephraim, and Benjamin, serving as territorial markers in the ancient Near East.

What is the meaning of Ataroth in the Bible?

Ataroth identifies three separate locations in the Hebrew Bible: a city in the territory of Reuben east of the Jordan River, a site on the boundary between Ephraim and Benjamin, and another location on the eastern frontier of Ephraim.

SIGNIFICANCE

Distinguishing between these three sites clarifies the specific tribal allotments and territorial boundaries described in the books of Numbers, Joshua, and Chronicles, preventing confusion regarding the geographic extent of the Reubenite, Ephraimite, and Benjaminite inheritances.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Ataroth (located near modern Ataroth of the Reubenites: likely near modern 'Ataruz, Jordan. Ataroth of Ephraim: likely near modern 'Atara, West Bank. Ataroth of Benjamin: likely near modern 'Atara, West Bank.) 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 Ataroth in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Ataroth clarify?

Related Topics

Charax; CharacaNaarathElasaLaodiceaKamonMount Of Beatitudes

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

"Ataroth." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ataroth/
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