Peraea
LocationsGeographical Setting
Peraea was the eastern region of the Jordan River valley inhabited by Jewish populations during the Second Temple period.
What is the meaning of Peraea in the Bible?
Peraea denotes the territory situated east of the Jordan River, extending from the Hauran plateau in the north to the Dead Sea in the south, and serving as the eastern boundary of the Jewish homeland.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Peraea clarifies the geographical context of Jesus' ministry, particularly his final journey to Jerusalem, and explains how travelers could move between Galilee and Judea while remaining within Jewish-controlled territory.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Peraea in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Peraea 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.