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Ir-Shemesh

Locations
Modern Location Likely Tel Er-Rashayna or Khirbet el-Ramleh in the Shephelah region of Judah
Coordinates 31.7167, 34.9167

Geographical Setting

Ir-shemesh is an ancient settlement in the Judean lowlands, frequently associated with the biblical city of Beth-shemesh.

What is the meaning of Ir-Shemesh in the Bible?

Ir-shemesh is a location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, appearing in Joshua 19:41 as one of the cities assigned to the tribe of Judah. The name translates to 'City of the Sun.' It is widely identified by scholars with the site of Beth-shemesh, or potentially a distinct but nearby settlement within the same administrative district.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Ir-shemesh clarifies the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Judah and helps readers visualize the geographic distribution of Levitical cities in the Shephelah region.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Ir-Shemesh (located near modern Likely Tel Er-Rashayna or Khirbet el-Ramleh in the Shephelah region of Judah) 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 Ir-Shemesh in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Ir-Shemesh clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: Joshua 19:41

Related Topics

SalamisCity, RoyalEn-TappuahWood Of EphraimKonaeGerrenians

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

"Ir-Shemesh." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/irshemesh/
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