Azekah was a biblical town in the Shephelah guarding the upper reaches of the Valley of Elah. It has been identified with Khirbet Qeiyafa, about 26 km (16 mi) northwest of Hebron.

Biblical history

In the Bible, it is said to be the place where the Amorite kings were defeated by Joshua, and their army destroyed by a hailstorm. (Joshua 10:10, 11) It was given to the tribe of Judah. (Joshua 15:20,35) In the time of Saul, the Philistines massed their forces between Sokho and Azekah, putting forth Goliath as their champion. (1. Sa chapter 17) Rehoboam fortified the town in his reign, along with Lachish and other strategic sites. (2. Chr 11:5-10) Lachish and Azekah were the last two towns to fall for the Babylonians before the overthrow of Jerusalem itself. (Jer. 34:6,7) It was one of the places re-occupied by the people on the return from the Captivity. (Neh. 11:30)

Archaeological findings

Excavations at Tel Azeka have revealed water systems, hideout caves and other antiquities. The site is located on the grounds of a Jewish National Fund park, Park Britania.

References

1. Archaeological mounds