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Gimzo

Locations
Modern Location Khirbet el-Qom
Coordinates 31.7833, 34.8667

Geographical Setting

An ancient Judean settlement situated in the Shephelah region, identified with the modern site of Khirbet el-Qom.

What is the meaning of Gimzo in the Bible?

A town in the territory of Judah located on the border of the Philistine plain, captured by the Philistines during the reign of King Ahaz. It is identified with the modern site of Khirbet el-Qom, situated approximately 3.5 miles southeast of Lydda (Ludd) along the ancient route connecting Lydda to Jerusalem.

SIGNIFICANCE

The biblical record of Gimzo's capture provides historical context for the geopolitical tensions between Judah and Philistia during the late 8th century BCE, illustrating the vulnerability of Judean border towns to external military pressure.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Gimzo (located near modern Khirbet el-Qom) 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 Gimzo in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Gimzo 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

"Gimzo." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/gimzo/
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