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Gibeah

Locations
Modern Location Tell el-Ful
Coordinates 31.8561, 35.2406

Geographical Setting

Gibeah was an ancient fortified city located in the central hill country of Israel, traditionally identified with the modern archaeological site of Tell el-Ful.

What is the meaning of Gibeah in the Bible?

Gibeah was a fortified city situated in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin, serving as the capital during the reign of King Saul and appearing in various biblical narratives concerning the early monarchy and tribal conflicts.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding the geography and political status of Gibeah clarifies the narrative context of the transition from the period of the Judges to the United Monarchy, highlighting the specific role of the tribe of Benjamin in early Israelite history.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Gibeah (located near modern Tell el-Ful) 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 Gibeah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Gibeah 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

"Gibeah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/gibeah/
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