Zelah
LocationsGeographical Setting
Zelah is an ancient settlement in the territory of Benjamin, identified in biblical texts as the burial site of King Saul and his son Jonathan.
What is the meaning of Zelah in the Bible?
Zelah is an ancient town located within the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. Its name is derived from a Hebrew root meaning 'slope' or 'side'.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Zelah clarifies the narrative of Saul's death and burial, providing geographical context for the transition of power from the house of Saul to David in the books of Samuel.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Zelah 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 Zelah in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zelah clarify?
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
"Zelah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zelah/