Zif
LocationsGeographical Setting
Zif was an ancient settlement in the hill country of Judah, identified by many scholars with the archaeological site of Khirbet es-Safi, formerly associated with the Philistine city of Gath.
What is the meaning of Zif in the Bible?
Zif is a location mentioned in Joshua 15:53, situated in the hill country of Judah, and is widely identified by modern archaeologists with the site of Khirbet es-Safi.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Zif with Khirbet es-Safi helps clarify the geographical boundaries of Judah and the proximity of Israelite settlements to major Philistine centers, providing context for the narratives involving David and Saul in the surrounding region.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Zif in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zif 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.