Back to Search

Sur

Locations
Modern Location Sur, Lebanon
Coordinates 33.2767, 35.1933

Geographical Setting

An ancient Phoenician city situated on the Mediterranean coast, historically associated with the region of Tyre.

What is the meaning of Sur in the Bible?

Inhabitants of Sur are listed alongside those of Sidon, Tyre, and Ocina as fearing the approach of Holofernes and the Assyrian army (Judith 2:28). The geographical sequence places Sur immediately after Tyre (modern-day Sur), distinguishing it from the Tyre mentioned previously in the text.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Sur as a distinct coastal settlement near Tyre clarifies the geographical scope of the forces arrayed against the biblical protagonists, illustrating the extent of the military threat described in the narrative.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Sur (located near modern Sur, Lebanon) 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 Sur in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Sur 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

"Sur." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/sur/
Report Error