Zuph
LocationsGeographical Setting
Zuph denotes a district within the tribal territory of Benjamin, situated near its northern boundary, and serves as the ancestral home for the family of Kish, father of King Saul.
What is the meaning of Zuph in the Bible?
Zuph refers to a district in Benjamin, near its northern border, and possibly an ancestor of Elkanah and Samuel.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Zuph clarifies the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Benjamin and establishes the geographic roots of the Saulid dynasty, providing context for the political landscape of early Israelite monarchy.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Zuph 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 Zuph in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Zuph 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
"Zuph." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/zuph/