Trachonitis
LocationsGeographical Setting
Trachonitis is a historical region in the Levant characterized by extensive basalt plateaus and rugged terrain.
What is the meaning of Trachonitis in the Bible?
Trachonitis denotes a district in ancient Syria comprising the fertile basalt plain of el-Leja and the arid, rocky desert of es-Safa.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the rugged and defensible nature of Trachonitis clarifies the geographical context of the banditry mentioned in Luke 3:14 and the strategic military movements described in historical accounts of the region.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Trachonitis (located near modern Southern Syria and Northern Jordan) 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 Trachonitis in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Trachonitis clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Luke 3:14
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
"Trachonitis." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/trachonitis/