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Zelzah

Locations
Modern Location Near modern-day Abu Ghosh, Israel
Coordinates 31.8236, 35.1661

Geographical Setting

Zelzah is an ancient site in the territory of Benjamin, identified with the biblical location where Samuel instructed Saul to meet two men regarding the recovery of his father's donkeys.

What is the meaning of Zelzah in the Bible?

A location in the border region of Benjamin, situated near Rachel's tomb, where the prophet Samuel directed Saul to meet two men who would confirm the recovery of his father's lost donkeys.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding the geography of Zelzah helps readers visualize the specific journey Saul undertook to seek divine guidance, highlighting the physical context of his transition from a private search to public kingship.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Zelzah (located near modern Near modern-day Abu Ghosh, Israel) 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 Zelzah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Zelzah 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

"Zelzah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zelzah/
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