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Shepham

Locations
Modern Location N/A
Coordinates N/A

Geographical Setting

Shepham was an ancient settlement located on the eastern frontier of the tribal territory of Gad.

What is the meaning of Shepham in the Bible?

Shepham was a town situated on the eastern boundary of Israel, mentioned in Numbers 34:10 as part of the land allotment for the tribe of Gad, but absent from the border descriptions in Ezekiel 47:15-18. It is traditionally identified as the hometown of Zabdi the Shiphmite, who served as David's chief vine-gardener.

SIGNIFICANCE

The inclusion of Shepham in Numbers alongside its omission in Ezekiel provides textual evidence for the differing geographical perspectives and administrative boundaries recorded in various biblical sources.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Shepham 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 Shepham in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Shepham clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned: Numbers 34:10Ezekiel 47:15-18

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

"Shepham." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/shepham/
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