Jattir
Jattir is an ancient city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the region of Judea in modern-day Israel. Known today as Khirbet Attir. It appears across 6 verses in Scripture.
Biblical History
Jattir appears in Scripture as a significant town in the hill country of Judah. It is first mentioned in the allotment of territory to Judah (Joshua 15:48), listed among the towns of the southern highlands. Jattir was subsequently designated as a Levitical city assigned to the descendants of Aaron, the priestly line, along with its surrounding pasturelands (Joshua 21:14; 1 Chronicles 6:57). This designation elevated Jattir's importance, as it became one of the centers where the Aaronic priests resided and carried out their teaching ministry among the people. The city's most notable narrative appearance comes during David's time as a fugitive. After his victory over the Amalekites who had raided Ziklag, David sent portions of the spoil to his friends in various Judean towns, and Jattir was among the recipients (1 Samuel 30:27). This generous act helped David cultivate loyalty among the elders of Judah, preparing the way for his eventual recognition as king over the southern tribes at Hebron.
Archaeological & Historical Notes
Jattir is identified with Khirbet Attir, a ruin site located approximately 21 kilometers south of Hebron in the southern Judean highlands. The identification is supported by the preservation of the ancient name in the Arabic form and by the site's geographical fit within the biblical descriptions. Archaeological surveys have documented remains spanning from the Iron Age through the Byzantine period, including building foundations, cisterns, and agricultural installations. A significant discovery at the site includes the remains of what appears to be a synagogue from the Roman-Byzantine period, suggesting continued Jewish habitation long after the Old Testament period. The surrounding landscape is semi-arid, characteristic of the transition zone between the Judean hills and the Negev desert.
Verse Appearances (6)
Sources: ISBE Encyclopedia · OpenBible Geocoding (CC BY) · Pleiades Gazetteer View all →