Gazara
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient Philistine city-state located in the Shephelah region of Judea, identified with the archaeological site of Tell el-Ful.
What is the meaning of Gazara in the Bible?
Gazara was a fortified Philistine city in the Shephelah that served as a strategic military stronghold during the Maccabean Revolt. It was captured by Simon Maccabeus, who subsequently resided there in a palace he constructed, as recorded in the First Book of Maccabees.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Gazara's geography and history clarifies the military campaigns described in 1 Maccabees, illustrating the territorial conflicts between the Hasmonean forces and the remaining Philistine strongholds in the Judean lowlands.
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.