Mound
NatureWhat is the meaning of Mound in the Bible?
In biblical contexts, a mound (Hebrew: tel or khirbet) denotes a raised earthwork or hill, often the site of ancient settlements or fortifications, rather than a specific type of fortification itself.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing mounds as ancient settlement sites helps readers visualize the physical geography and urban development described in biblical narratives.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Mound were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Mound in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Mound clarify?
Related Topics
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
"Mound." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/mound/