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Gederoth

Locations
Modern Location Likely Khirbet Qumya or similar site in the Shephelah region of Judah
Coordinates 31.6500, 34.9500

Geographical Setting

Gederoth was an ancient fortified town in the Shephelah of Judah, identified in biblical texts as having been captured by the Philistines during the reign of King Ahaz.

What is the meaning of Gederoth in the Bible?

Gederoth was a town in the Shephelah of Judah, mentioned along with other towns as taken by the Philistines during the reign of Ahaz. It possibly corresponds to the 'Kidron' mentioned in 1 Maccabees.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Gederoth helps readers understand the geopolitical instability of Judah during the 8th century BCE, illustrating how Philistine incursions into the Shephelah threatened the security of Jerusalem's southern approaches during the reign of Ahaz.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Gederoth (located near modern Likely Khirbet Qumya or similar site in the Shephelah region of Judah) 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 Gederoth in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Gederoth 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

"Gederoth." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/gederoth/
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