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Debir (2)

Locations
Modern Location Khirbet Rabud, West Bank
Coordinates 31.5167, 35.0333

Geographical Setting

Debir, also known as Kiriath-sepher, was an ancient Canaanite city in the Judean lowlands later incorporated into the tribal territory of Judah.

What is the meaning of Debir (2) in the Bible?

Debir was a fortified city in the Judean hill country, identified with the archaeological site at Khirbet Rabud, which was captured by the Israelite leader Othniel according to biblical narratives.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Debir's location and history provides context for the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Judah and the archaeological evidence of Iron Age settlement patterns in the region.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Debir (2) (located near modern Khirbet Rabud, West Bank) 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 Debir (2) in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Debir (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

"Debir (2)." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/debir-2/
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