Shilonite
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Shilonite in the Bible?
The term Shilonite designates individuals associated with the ancient sanctuary city of Shiloh, most notably the prophet Ahijah who prophesied against Jeroboam I, as well as a group of Judahites listed in Ezra 2:25 who returned from Babylonian exile and settled in Jerusalem.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this designation helps readers distinguish between the pre-monarchic priestly and prophetic traditions centered at Shiloh and the later post-exilic community records, providing clearer context for the tribal affiliations and historical timelines of key biblical figures.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Shilonite in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Shilonite 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.