Valley of Elah
City:
State, Province, Region, or District:
Shephelah
Country:
Israel
Overview
The Valley of Elah is a long, shallow valley in the Shephelah area of Israel best known as the location of the historical encounter between David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17). The biblical account provides detailed information regarding its location, with references to nearby sites including the Israelite camp, the Philistine camp at Ephes-dammin, Azekah, Socoh, Shaaraim, and the Ha Ela Stream where David chose five smooth stones.
The land around the valley of Elah was part of the tribe of Judah. The valley received its name from the Elah tree, a type of oak or terebinth (pistacia) tree that grow in the Holy Land.
The Bible named several sites around the valley where the camps of the Israelites and the Philistines were located to watch the battle - Azekah (Azeka), Shaaraim (Sha’arayim), and Sochoh (Socoh).
Alternate Names
Valley of Elah; Ella Valley; Nahal ha'Ela; Vale of Elah; Wadi Elah; Wadi es-Sunt
Geography & Location
The triangular-shaped Valley of Elah is about 15 miles (23 km) west of Bethlehem and about 20 miles (32 km) east of the Mediterranean Sea.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Historical Timeline
Architecture
The Valley of Elah is mostly an undeveloped site that can be seen in its natural state featuring a lush, strategic corridor in Israel's Shephelah region separating the Judean hill country from the coastal plains. Khirbet Qeiyafa (also known as Elah Fortress and in Hebrew as Horbat Qayafa) is the site of an ancient fortress city overlooking the Valley of Elah and dated to the first half of the 10th century BC, a range which includes the biblical kingdom of David. For this reason, archaeologists have concluded that Khirbet Qeiyafa is a fortress David built after he became king over all of Israel as a memorial to his victory over Goliath.
Biblical & Historical References
The story of David and Goliath is primarily located in 1 Samuel 17:1-52.
Spiritual Lessons and Application
The outcome of the battle was far more significant than we might realize. If the Israelites lost, they would become the Philistines' servants. It was a “winner takes all” battle.
Etymology
Elah – the Hebrew name of the Terebinth (Pistacia palaestina) tree. In the KJV Bible, the Hebrew “Elah” was translated as “oak” (2 Samuel 18:9).
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
Israelite Camp