Dan (2)
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient Canaanite city in the northernmost region of the Levant, later conquered by the tribe of Dan and renamed.
What is the meaning of Dan (2) in the Bible?
An ancient city located at the northernmost extent of the biblical land of Israel, originally known as Laish, which was captured by the tribe of Dan and renamed in their honor.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Dan provides context for the northern territorial boundaries of the Israelite tribes and explains the historical basis for the establishment of the idolatrous sanctuary described in the Book of Judges.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Dan (2) (located near modern Tel Dan, near Dan, 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 Dan (2) in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Dan (2) 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
"Dan (2)." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/dan-2/