Shunem
LocationsGeographical Setting
Shunem was an ancient Canaanite and Israelite town situated in the Jezreel Valley, historically associated with the tribe of Issachar.
What is the meaning of Shunem in the Bible?
Shunem was a town located in the territory of Issachar, serving as a strategic encampment for Philistine forces prior to the battle of Gilboa and as the residence of a woman who provided hospitality to the prophet Elisha.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the geography of Shunem clarifies the logistical movements of ancient armies in the Jezreel Valley and contextualizes the narrative of Elisha's interactions with local residents.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Shunem in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Shunem 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.