En-Shemesh
LocationsGeographical Setting
En-shemesh is a spring located in the Wadi Qelt, situated on the boundary between the tribal territories of Judah and Benjamin.
What is the meaning of En-Shemesh in the Bible?
En-shemesh is a spring located in the Wadi Qelt, situated on the boundary between the tribal territories of Judah and Benjamin.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying En-shemesh clarifies the precise territorial division between Judah and Benjamin described in Joshua 15:7 and 18:17, providing geographical context for the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: En-Shemesh (located near modern Wadi Qelt, near Jericho) 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 En-Shemesh in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does En-Shemesh clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Joshua 15:7
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
"En-Shemesh." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/enshemesh/