Hepher
LocationsGeographical Setting
Hepher is an ancient Canaanite settlement identified in biblical texts as a conquered city and a later administrative district.
What is the meaning of Hepher in the Bible?
Hepher denotes a Canaanite town listed among the cities defeated by Joshua in the southern campaign and a district associated with Socoh during the administrative reforms of King Solomon.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Hepher helps clarify the territorial extent of Israelite conquest in the Shephelah region and illustrates the organizational structure of Solomon's royal administration.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Hepher 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 Hepher in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Hepher 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
"Hepher." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/hepher/