Shiloh
City:
Shiloh
State, Province, Region, or District:
Samaria Region; Judea and Samaria Area
Country:
Israel
Overview
Shiloh was a biblical city in ancient Israel now located in the West Bank (i.e. Samaria). After the conquest of the land was basically complete, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh, where it would reside for 369 years. It was the religious and military capital of Israel during the times of the Judges.
Because of the Tabernacle, Shiloh is connected to many biblical stories. At Shiloh, Hannah prayed for a son. God heard her prayers and blessed her with Samuel. Hannah brought Samuel to Shiloh and consecrated him to the Lord’s service. Samuel was raised in the Tabernacle here at Shiloh and became a great prophet whom God greatly used. The Ark of the Covenant was captured in a battle with the Philistines and as a result, Hophni and Phinehas died along with their father, Eli, near Shiloh.
Today, Shiloh is an archaeology site open to the public where visitors explore excavated ruins, panoramic observation towers, and interactive biblical exhibits. Shiloh is sacred to three religions – Jewish, Christian and Muslim – and pilgrims have come to visit the ruins for the past 3,060 years. On the south-east side of site are the ruins of mosques, churches, and a modern Synagogue.
Alternate Names
Shiloh; Ancient Shiloh; Khirbet Seilun; Seilun; Shillo; Shilo
Geography & Location
Shiloh is about 20 miles (32 km) north of Jerusalem on Hwy. 60.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Historical Timeline
Architecture
Tel Shiloh (Khirbet Seilun) features architectural layers spanning over 3,800 years. Key features include Middle Bronze Age fortifications and gates, Iron Age structures linked to the ancient Tabernacle, Byzantine basilicas with intricate mosaics, and modern visitor centers designed to complement the landscape.
Biblical & Historical References
Note: While the city of Shiloh is the primary usage, the term is also used in Genesis 49:10, where Jacob prophesies that the scepter will not depart from Judah "until Shiloh comes." Most biblical scholars interpret this verse not as a place, but as a title for the Messiah or "the one to whom it belongs."
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Shiloh was a place of rich blessing and rejoicing when the Israelites obeyed God. Do we understand that obeying and serving God brings life and fulfills our souls?
Etymology
Shiloh – The meaning of the word "Shiloh" is unclear. The name has been argued to have been derived from שלה and may be translated as Tranquility Town. Ran Zadok argued that the toponym derives from שׁ–א–ל. Z. Vilanai suggests it means serenity or rest (from Hebrew: Shalva) after the rough years of Exodus and Conquest. This is based on Deuteronomy 12:9: "For ye are not as yet come to the rest and to the inheritance, which the LORD your God giveth you."
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
Oil Press