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Azekah

Locations
Modern Location Tell el-Ful (debated) or Khirbet 'Azaqa
Coordinates 31.7667, 35.0333

Geographical Setting

An ancient fortified city situated in the Shephelah region of Judah, strategically positioned between the coastal plain and the Judean highlands.

What is the meaning of Azekah in the Bible?

A fortified town in the Shephelah of Judah, frequently mentioned in biblical narratives alongside Socoh, with archaeological excavations conducted by the Palestine Exploration Fund and other institutions.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Azekah's strategic position in the Shephelah clarifies the military campaigns described in 1 Samuel 17, where the valley between Azekah and Socoh served as the battlefield for the confrontation between David and Goliath.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Azekah (located near modern Tell el-Ful (debated) or Khirbet 'Azaqa) 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 Azekah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Azekah 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

"Azekah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/azekah/
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