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Belmaim

Locations
Modern Location Bir Bil'ameh
Coordinates 32.4667, 35.2833

Geographical Setting

An ancient settlement located south of Jenin in the Jezreel Valley, identified with the site mentioned in the Book of Judith.

What is the meaning of Belmaim in the Bible?

Belmaim is a location in the vicinity of Dothan, from which a warning was dispatched regarding the impending invasion by Holofernes. It is generally identified with the modern ruins of Bir Bil'ameh, situated approximately half a mile south of Jenin.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Belmaim clarifies the geographical context of the narrative in the Book of Judith, illustrating the communication networks and defensive preparations of the Israelite communities in the Jezreel Valley during the period depicted.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Belmaim (located near modern Bir Bil'ameh) 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 Belmaim in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Belmaim 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

"Belmaim." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/belmaim/
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