Galilee, Sea Of
LocationsGeographical Setting
A freshwater lake situated in the Jordan Rift Valley, serving as the lowest point of the Jordan River system.
What is the meaning of Galilee, Sea Of in the Bible?
The Sea of Galilee is a freshwater lake located in the Jordan Rift Valley in northern Israel. It lies approximately 209 meters (686 feet) below sea level and reaches a maximum depth of approximately 43 meters (141 feet). The lake is fed primarily by the Jordan River and is surrounded by hills and plains that have been influenced by tectonic activity and volcanic processes.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the geography of the Sea of Galilee clarifies the setting of numerous narratives in the Gospels, where the lake's proximity to towns like Capernaum and Tiberias facilitated the ministry of Jesus, and its sudden storms illustrate the volatile weather patterns characteristic of the region.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.