Hachilah
LocationsGeographical Setting
Hachilah is a specific hill located on the El-Kola Ridge within the Judean wilderness, historically significant for its role in the narrative of King David's evasion of Saul.
What is the meaning of Hachilah in the Bible?
Hachilah is a prominent hill situated on the El-Kola Ridge, overlooking the wilderness of Ziph in the Judean Desert.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Hachilah clarifies the tactical geography of 1 Samuel 23, illustrating how the rugged terrain of the Judean wilderness provided strategic cover for David's forces against Saul's pursuit.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Hachilah (located near modern El-Kola Ridge, Judean Desert, Israel) 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 Hachilah in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Hachilah 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
"Hachilah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/hachilah/