Carnaim
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient Ammonite city located in the region of Gilead, identified with the biblical Ashteroth Karnaim.
What is the meaning of Carnaim in the Bible?
A fortified city in Gilead captured by Judas Maccabeus during his military campaigns against the Seleucid Empire, likely identical to the biblical Ashteroth Karnaim.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the geography of Carna'im clarifies the extent of Judas Maccabeus's military reach into Transjordan, illustrating the strategic complexity of the Maccabean revolt beyond Judea.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Carnaim (located near modern Tell el-'Umeiri, 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 Carnaim in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Carnaim clarify?
Related Topics
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
"Carnaim." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/carnaim/