Atomic Bible

Town in Zebulun; hometown of prophet Jonah

Gath-hepher

Named in 2 verses across 2 books, first in Joshua 19:13.

גַּת הַחֵ֫פֶרGath-hepher

About Gath-hepher Written by AI

Gath-hepher is mentioned in the Bible as a town located in the territory of Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. It is primarily known as the hometown of the prophet Jonah, who was called by God to preach to the people of Nineveh (2Ki.14.25). The town is first mentioned in Joshua 19:13, where it is listed among the cities and villages allotted to the tribe of Zebulun during the division of the Promised Land. Its exact location is uncertain, but it is believed to have been situated in the region of Lower Galilee, near the border with Asher. Apart from being the birthplace of Jonah, no other significant events or individuals are associated with Gath-hepher in the Bible. The mention of Jonah's origins in 2Ki.14.25 serves to provide background information about the prophet and to emphasize his Israelite heritage. The name Gath-hepher is composed of two elements: "Gath," meaning "winepress," and "hepher," which may be derived from a root meaning "to dig" or "to explore." This suggests that the town may have been known for its wine production or its location near a significant well or water source.

Drafted by an AI model for STEPBible's TIPNR (Tyndale House Cambridge, CC BY 4.0). Check it against the verses below.

Easton's Bible Dictionary, 1897

Wine-press of the well, a town of Lower Galilee, about 5 miles from Nazareth; the birthplace of Jonah (2 Kings 14:25); the same as Gittah-hepher (Josh. 19:13). It has been identified with the modern el-Meshed, a village on the top of a rocky hill. Here the supposed tomb of Jonah, Neby Yunas, is still pointed out.

M. G. Easton, Illustrated Bible Dictionary, third edition (1897), public domain, from CrossWire. Shown as written; its Scripture quotes are from older translations.

32.739, 35.328 See it on a map

GenesisMatthewRevelation

Where the Bible names it

  1. Joshua 19:13

    From there it crossed eastward to Gath-hepher and to Eth-kazin; it extended to Rimmon and curved around toward Neah.

  2. 2 Kings 14:25

    This Jeroboam restored the boundary of Israel from Lebo-hamath to the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word that the LORD, the God of Israel, had spoken through His servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet from Gath-hepher.

From STEPBible's TIPNR, Tyndale House Cambridge (CC BY 4.0): names, family, references and the AI written article. Verse text is the BSB.