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Seirah

Locations
Modern Location Wadi al-Mujib, Jordan
Coordinates 31.4500, 35.6800

Geographical Setting

An ancient Moabite stronghold situated in a deep gorge south of the Arnon River.

What is the meaning of Seirah in the Bible?

A fortified city in Moab where Ehud sought refuge following the assassination of King Eglon, likely named for its rugged, forested terrain.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Seirah clarifies the geographical context of the Judges narrative, demonstrating how Ehud utilized the rugged topography of the Moabite borderlands to evade pursuit and rally the Israelite forces.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Seirah (located near modern Wadi al-Mujib, Jordan) 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 Seirah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Seirah 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

"Seirah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/seirah/
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