Elath (Eilat) in the Bible
A port city on the Red Sea at the southern tip of Israel's territory.
Elath (also Eloth) was a port city at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea), giving Israel access to maritime trade routes. Solomon built a fleet of ships at nearby Ezion-geber, and the city changed hands between Israel and Edom multiple times.
Modern Location
Eilat, southern Israel, on the Gulf of Aqaba
Key Biblical Events
- 1Israel passes near Elath in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 2:8)
- 2Solomon builds a navy at nearby Ezion-geber (1 Kings 9:26)
- 3Azariah/Uzziah rebuilds Elath for Judah (2 Kings 14:22)
- 4Rezin of Syria recovers Elath for Edom (2 Kings 16:6)
Key KJV Scriptures
"And king Solomon made a navy of ships in Eziongeber, which is beside Eloth, on the shore of the Red sea, in the land of Edom."
"He built Elath, and restored it to Judah."
Spiritual Significance
Elath shows that God's provision for Israel included international connections. Solomon's port opened trade with distant lands — God's blessings often come through unexpected channels.
Why Elath (Eilat) Matters
Elath (Eilat) holds a unique place in Scripture because it stands at the crossroads of God's covenant promises to His chosen people. With 4 major biblical events connected to this site — and key figures like Solomon, Uzziah linked to its story — Elath (Eilat) is far more than a point on an ancient map. It is a place where God acted decisively in human history.
Rooted in the Old Testament narrative, Elath (Eilat) is referenced in 2 key scriptures that reveal God's faithfulness across generations. Elath shows that God's provision for Israel included international connections. Solomon's port opened trade with distant lands — God's blessings often come through unexpected channels.
For today's believer, studying Elath (Eilat) is more than a geography lesson — it is an invitation to see God's faithfulness written across real places and real people. Every mountain, city, and river in Scripture reminds us that God works within history, not apart from it. When you read about Elath (Eilat), you are standing on the same spiritual ground where Solomon encountered the living God.
Related Bible Characters
Frequently Asked Questions
Is biblical Elath the same as modern Eilat?
Modern Eilat is in the same area at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, though the exact ancient site may be nearby at Tell el-Kheleifeh.
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