Tirza
LocationsGeographical Setting
Tirza was an ancient Canaanite city located in the central highlands of Palestine, serving as the first capital of the northern Kingdom of Israel before Omri moved the seat of power to Samaria.
What is the meaning of Tirza in the Bible?
Tirza, meaning 'pleasantness,' was an ancient Canaanite royal city located in the central highlands. Archaeological evidence indicates it was a significant administrative center during the Late Bronze Age and the early Iron Age, rather than being destroyed during the military campaigns traditionally associated with Joshua.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Tirza's role as the initial capital of the northern kingdom provides essential context for the political history of the divided monarchy and clarifies the timeline of Israelite state formation prior to the establishment of Samaria.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.