Caphira
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient Judean settlement identified with the biblical Chephirah, known for its Gibeonite origins and subsequent inclusion in the tribal allotment of Judah.
What is the meaning of Caphira in the Bible?
A town in the hill country of Judah, identified with Chephirah, whose residents returned from Babylonian exile under the leadership of Zerubbabel.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Caphira with Chephirah clarifies the geographical distribution of post-exilic communities and illustrates the continuity of specific family lines within the tribe of Judah during the restoration period.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Caphira (located near modern Near modern-day Abu Ghosh, Israel) 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 Caphira in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Caphira 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
"Caphira." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/caphira/