Back to Search

Valley Of Slaughter

Locations
Modern Location Valley of Hinnom (Wadi er-Rababi), south of Jerusalem
Coordinates 31.7750, 35.2280

Geographical Setting

A ravine south of ancient Jerusalem historically associated with idolatrous cultic practices.

What is the meaning of Valley Of Slaughter in the Bible?

The Valley of Hinnom, known in biblical texts as Topheth, is a geographical site south of Jerusalem where archaeological and textual evidence indicates the practice of child sacrifice to the deity Molech during the monarchic period.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding this location clarifies the biblical prophets' use of 'Gehenna' as a metaphor for divine judgment, linking the physical site of historical apostasy to the theological concept of eschatological punishment.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Valley Of Slaughter (located near modern Valley of Hinnom (Wadi er-Rababi), south of Jerusalem) 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 Valley Of Slaughter in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Valley Of Slaughter 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

"Valley Of Slaughter." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/valley-of-slaughter/
Report Error