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Golan; Gaulonitis

Locations
Modern Location Golan Plateau, spanning the Golan Heights (Syrian territory occupied by Israel) and parts of southern Syria
Coordinates 32.8000, 35.7500

Geographical Setting

An ancient region in the Levant, historically known as Gaulonitis, situated east of the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River.

What is the meaning of Golan; Gaulonitis in the Bible?

Golan was a city in the region of Bashan, allotted to the tribe of Manasseh, and the surrounding area became known as Gaulonitis, forming the eastern boundary of Galilee.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding the geography of Golan and Gaulonitis clarifies the territorial boundaries of the Israelite tribes and provides context for the region's role in the ministry of Jesus, particularly regarding the Decapolis cities and the topography of the surrounding hills.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Golan; Gaulonitis (located near modern Golan Plateau, spanning the Golan Heights (Syrian territory occupied by Israel) and parts of southern Syria) 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 Golan; Gaulonitis in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Golan; Gaulonitis 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

"Golan; Gaulonitis." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/golan-gaulonitis/
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