Adoraim
Adoraim is an ancient city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the region of Judea in modern-day Israel. Known today as Dura. It appears across 1 verse in Scripture.
Biblical History
Adoraim is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 11:9 as one of the fifteen cities fortified by Rehoboam, son of Solomon, following the division of the united monarchy after Solomon's death around 930 BCE. When the northern ten tribes seceded under Jeroboam, Rehoboam set about securing the southern kingdom of Judah by building a network of fortified cities to defend against both northern Israel and the perennial threat from Egypt. Adoraim was positioned in the southern Judean highlands, forming part of the defensive ring guarding approaches from the southwest. The strategic investment in Adoraim's fortifications reflects Rehoboam's recognition of the vulnerability of Judah's southern flank, a concern vindicated when Pharaoh Shishak invaded Judah in Rehoboam's fifth year (2 Chronicles 12:2–4), reportedly capturing many of the very fortified cities Rehoboam had built. Adoraim later appears in the intertestamental period as Adora, a stronghold in Idumea (the Hellenistic designation for Edom), and is mentioned in 1 Maccabees 13:20 in connection with Simon Maccabeus's campaigns.
Archaeological & Historical Notes
Adoraim is confidently identified with modern Dura, a large Arab town located approximately 8 kilometers southwest of Hebron in the southern West Bank. The ancient site likely underlies the modern settlement, making systematic archaeological excavation impractical. However, surveys and observations have noted ancient remains in the vicinity consistent with Iron Age occupation, aligning with Rehoboam's fortification program. In the Hellenistic-Roman period, the site was known as Adora and served as an administrative center for the Idumean region. Josephus mentions it several times in this later context. Surface finds include pottery from the Iron Age through Byzantine periods, confirming long continuous occupation.
Verse Appearances (1)
2Chr
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