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Tirzah

Locations
Modern Location Tell el-Far'ah (North), West Bank
Coordinates 32.3167, 35.2833

Geographical Setting

Tirzah was an ancient Canaanite city that served as the second capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel before the throne moved to Samaria.

What is the meaning of Tirzah in the Bible?

A Canaanite city that served as the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel under Kings Baasha, Elah, and Zimri before Omri established Samaria as the new capital.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Tirzah clarifies the political instability and dynastic shifts within the Northern Kingdom, illustrating the transition of power from the tribe of Issachar to the tribe of Omri, which is crucial for interpreting the prophetic critiques found in the books of Kings.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Tirzah (located near modern Tell el-Far'ah (North), West Bank) 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 Tirzah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Tirzah 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

"Tirzah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/tirzah/
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