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Madian

Locations
Modern Location Northwestern Saudi Arabia (Tihamah region near the Gulf of Aqaba)
Coordinates 28.5000, 35.2500

Geographical Setting

An ancient tribal territory and geographical region situated in the northwestern Arabian Peninsula, east of the Gulf of Aqaba.

What is the meaning of Madian in the Bible?

Midian denotes a region in northwestern Arabia, identified in biblical texts such as the Book of Judith and the Acts of the Apostles, and is historically associated with the descendants of Midah, a son of Abraham by Keturah.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding the geography of Midian clarifies the setting for key biblical narratives, including Moses' exile and the establishment of the Israelite religious traditions in the wilderness.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Madian (located near modern Northwestern Saudi Arabia (Tihamah region near the Gulf of Aqaba)) 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 Madian in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Madian 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

"Madian." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/madian/
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