Dothan
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient valley situated between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, historically associated with pastoral activities and biblical narratives involving the patriarchs and the prophet Elisha.
What is the meaning of Dothan in the Bible?
A valley north of Shechem where Jacob's sons pastured their flocks and where Joseph was sold by his brothers to Ishmaelite traders, as well as the site where Elisha's servant witnessed a divine army of horses and chariots of fire.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Dothan provides geographical context for the early life of Joseph and illustrates the narrative tension between divine protection and human conflict in the prophetic accounts of Elisha.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Dothan in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Dothan 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.