Zarephath
LocationsGeographical Setting
An ancient Phoenician settlement located on the Mediterranean coast, south of Sidon.
What is the meaning of Zarephath in the Bible?
The Sidonian town where Elijah was entertained by a widow after leaving the brook Cherith, and which Obadiah refers to as a Canaanite town. It appears in the Greek form Sarepta in Luke 4:26.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Zarephath provides historical context for the narrative of Elijah's provision during his exile, highlighting the interaction between Israelite prophets and neighboring Phoenician communities.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Zarephath (located near modern Sarafand, 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 Zarephath in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zarephath clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Luke 4:26
Related Topics
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
"Zarephath." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zarephath/