Lo-debar
Lo-debar is an ancient city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the region of Galilee in modern-day Israel. Known today as Tel Dover. It appears across 4 verses in Scripture.
Biblical History
Lo-debar, meaning 'no pasture' or 'nothing,' appears in one of the Old Testament's most poignant narratives of covenant faithfulness. After consolidating his kingdom, David inquired whether any of Saul's family survived, 'that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake' (2 Samuel 9:1). He learned that Mephibosheth, Jonathan's crippled son, was living in Lo-debar in the house of Machir son of Ammiel (2 Samuel 9:4-5). David summoned Mephibosheth from this obscure Transjordanian town, restored to him all of Saul's lands, and granted him a permanent place at the royal table. The name Lo-debar poetically underscores the narrative: the grandson of a king was living in a place meaning 'nothing,' yet was raised to honor through David's gracious initiative. Machir of Lo-debar later proved his loyalty by providing supplies to David when the king fled from Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:27). Lo-debar also appears in Amos 6:13, where the prophet plays on its meaning to mock Israel's misplaced military pride. The city's story powerfully prefigures the gospel theme of grace extended to the undeserving.
Archaeological & Historical Notes
Lo-debar is identified with Tel Dover (also known as Tel ed-Daber or Umm ed-Dabar), a site in the northern Jordan Valley east of the Sea of Galilee, in the region of Gilead. The identification rests on the preservation of the name in the Arabic toponym and the geographical fit with a Transjordanian location accessible from both the Israelite heartland and the territory of Ammon. Archaeological surveys at Tel Dover have revealed occupation during the Iron Age, consistent with the Davidic-era narrative. The site overlooks the Yarmuk River valley in a relatively fertile area, despite the name's meaning. The tell shows evidence of fortification and settlement. Limited excavation has been conducted, but surface finds confirm Iron Age habitation in this strategically located Gilead town.
Verse Appearances (4)
Sources: ISBE Encyclopedia · OpenBible Geocoding (CC BY) · Pleiades Gazetteer View all →