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Machmas

Locations
Modern Location El-Mukhmas, Palestine
Coordinates 31.9167, 35.2667

Geographical Setting

Machmas is an ancient fortified settlement located in the hill country of Benjamin, identified with the modern site of El-Mukhmas.

What is the meaning of Machmas in the Bible?

Machmas is a biblical location identified with the modern site of El-Mukhmas, situated on a prominent ridge in the hill country of Benjamin. It served as a strategic military outpost and is frequently mentioned in the Hebrew Bible in the context of conflicts between Israel and Philistia.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Machmas as a strategic high ground clarifies the tactical significance of battles described in 1 Samuel, particularly the encounter between Jonathan and the Philistine garrison, illustrating how geography influenced ancient military campaigns.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Machmas (located near modern El-Mukhmas, Palestine) 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 Machmas in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Machmas clarify?

Related Topics

Beth-Shean; Beth-ShanMaaleh-AcrabbimAdramyttiumIsles Of The GentilesPalestinaJathbath

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

"Machmas." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/machmas/
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