Kedesh
LocationsGeographical Setting
Kedesh was a Levitical city in Naphtali and a designated city of refuge located in the northern highlands of ancient Israel.
What is the meaning of Kedesh in the Bible?
Kedesh is a Hebrew term meaning 'sanctuary' or 'holy place'. It refers to several distinct locations in the biblical narrative, including a site in the southern region of Judah.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying these specific locations is crucial for mapping the territorial boundaries and tribal allotments described in the Book of Joshua.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Kedesh (located near modern Tell Qades, near Kiryat Shmona, 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 Kedesh in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Kedesh 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
"Kedesh." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/kedesh/