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Elymais

Locations
Modern Location Khuzestan Province, Iran
Coordinates 31.4200, 49.0000

Geographical Setting

Elymais was an ancient Hellenistic kingdom situated in the region of Khuzestan, south of Media and north of Susiana, known for its distinct political identity and cultural interactions during the Seleucid period.

What is the meaning of Elymais in the Bible?

Elymais was an independent kingdom in ancient Persia, located south of Media and north of Susiana, corresponding to the region of Khuzestan in modern-day Iran.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Elymais provides historical context for the geopolitical landscape of the Near East during the Maccabean period, clarifying the regional powers and territories referenced in 1 Maccabees.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Elymais (located near modern Khuzestan Province, Iran) 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 Elymais in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Elymais 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

"Elymais." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/elymais/
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