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Shema (1)

Locations
Modern Location Tell el-Hesi (disputed identification) or potentially Khirbet el-Meshash
Coordinates 31.2833, 34.5167

Geographical Setting

Shema was a fortified settlement in the southern Negev region of ancient Judah, mentioned in biblical texts as part of the territorial divisions of the tribe of Judah.

What is the meaning of Shema (1) in the Bible?

A fortified city in the Negeb region of Judah, identified in some scholarly traditions with Jeshua and located in the southern highlands, characterized by archaeological remains of defensive walls.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Shema clarifies the geographical extent of Judahite settlement in the Negev and aids in correlating biblical tribal boundaries with archaeological site distributions.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Shema (1) (located near modern Tell el-Hesi (disputed identification) or potentially Khirbet el-Meshash) 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 Shema (1) in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Shema (1) clarify?

Related Topics

Azmaveth (2)AttusRachalAsiaIspahSamothracia

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

"Shema (1)." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/shema-1/
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