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Elam

Locations
Modern Location Southwestern Iran (Khuzestan and Fars provinces)
Coordinates 31.4167, 49.0000

Geographical Setting

Elam was an ancient civilization and political entity located in what is now southwestern Iran, existing from the 4th millennium BCE until its conquest by the Assyrians and Babylonians.

What is the meaning of Elam in the Bible?

Elam denotes an ancient civilization and geopolitical region in southwestern Iran, distinct from the biblical personal names of the same spelling, characterized by its unique language, ziggurat architecture, and complex diplomatic and military interactions with Mesopotamian powers.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Elam clarifies the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East, explaining the historical context of biblical references to Elamite kings, exiles, and prophecies that shape the narrative of Israel's interactions with its eastern neighbors.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Elam (located near modern Southwestern Iran (Khuzestan and Fars provinces)) 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 Elam in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Elam clarify?

Related Topics

GaulonitisChorazinBerzelusTibhathMezarimHarod, Well Of

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

"Elam." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/elam/
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