Who or what is Migdal-El in the Bible?

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Migdal-El

Locations

Modern Location Khirbet Mejdel or Mejdel Islim

Coordinates 32.8333, 35.5500

Geographical Setting

An ancient fortified settlement in the territory of Naphtali, identified in biblical texts as Migdal-el.

What is the meaning of Migdal-El in the Bible?

The name 'Migdal-el' translates to 'tower of God' and appears in the biblical list of fortified cities of Naphtali, situated between Iron and Horem. Its precise archaeological location remains uncertain, with scholarly proposals suggesting identifications at Khirbet Mejdel or Mejdel Islim.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Migdal-el helps readers visualize the defensive network and territorial extent of the tribe of Naphtali as described in the Book of Joshua.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Migdal-El (located near modern Khirbet Mejdel or Mejdel Islim) 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 Migdal-El in this passage?
What cultural or historical assumption does Migdal-El 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

          "Migdal-El." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/migdalel/
        

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