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Herodion

Locations
Modern Location Herodium (Turqmanallah), West Bank
Coordinates 31.7297, 35.2583

Geographical Setting

Herodion is an artificial hill and fortress complex located approximately 12 kilometers southeast of Jerusalem, constructed by King Herod the Great in the 1st century BCE.

What is the meaning of Herodion in the Bible?

Herodion was a fortified palace-fortress and necropolis built by Herod the Great, situated on a conical hill in the Judean desert, serving as both a defensive stronghold and his intended burial site.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Herodion provides context for the political landscape of Judea during the Second Temple period, illustrating the extent of Herodian power and architectural ambition, which frames the historical backdrop of the New Testament narrative.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Herodion (located near modern Herodium (Turqmanallah), West Bank) 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 Herodion in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Herodion 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

"Herodion." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/herodion/
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