Paran, El-Paran
LocationsGeographical Setting
El-Paran denotes a southern boundary marker in ancient Israelite geography, often associated with the port city of Elath and the broader wilderness region.
What is the meaning of Paran, El-Paran in the Bible?
El-Paran identifies the southernmost extent of territorial control or travel for ancient Israelite kings, frequently conflated with or located near Elath, a seaport town adjacent to the wilderness of Paran. This wilderness region corresponds to the arid limestone plateau of the southern Sinai Peninsula, extending from the southwestern edge of the Dead Sea toward Mount Sinai.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding El-Paran clarifies the geographical boundaries of the biblical land of Israel, specifically marking the southern limit of royal expeditions and trade routes, which helps readers visualize the spatial scope of ancient narratives and the logistical challenges of reaching the southernmost territories.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.