Ellasar
LocationsGeographical Setting
Ellasar was an ancient city-state in Mesopotamia, identified with the archaeological site of Tell Senqara on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River.
What is the meaning of Ellasar in the Bible?
Ellasar was a city-state ruled by Arioch, a figure mentioned in Genesis 14:1, and is archaeologically identified with the site of Senqara located on the east bank of the Euphrates River.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Ellasar with Senqara helps clarify the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East described in Genesis 14, providing historical context for the coalition of kings that confronted Abram.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Ellasar (located near modern Tell Senqara, Iraq) 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 Ellasar in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ellasar clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Genesis 14:1
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
"Ellasar." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ellasar/