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Keilah

Locations
Modern Location Tell el-Kaila, near Beit Guvrin, Israel
Coordinates 31.6167, 34.9500

Geographical Setting

Keilah was a fortified city in the Judean Shephelah, strategically located on trade routes and known for its grain stores and defensive walls.

What is the meaning of Keilah in the Bible?

Keilah was a fortified city in the Judean Shephelah mentioned in Joshua 15:44, characterized by its gates and bars, and it served as a temporary refuge for David during his conflict with Saul.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Keilah's geography and fortifications clarifies the tactical dilemma David faced, as the city's open gates made it vulnerable to Saul's army, illustrating the precarious nature of his exile and the betrayal by its inhabitants.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Keilah (located near modern Tell el-Kaila, near Beit Guvrin, 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 Keilah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Keilah clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: Joshua 15:44

Related Topics

PisgahArdatBethel, MountPlain Of MamreZeboiimAlush

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

"Keilah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/keilah/
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