Zorah in the Bible
The birthplace of Samson, located in the Shephelah region of Judah and Dan.
Zorah was a town in the lowlands of Judah on the border of the territory of Dan. It is best known as the birthplace and home of Samson, the Nazirite judge of Israel who fought the Philistines with supernatural strength. The angel of the LORD appeared to Samson's parents here to announce his miraculous birth.
Modern Location
Identified with Sar'ah, overlooking the Sorek Valley, near modern Tzora in Israel.
Key Biblical Events
- 1Angel of the LORD appeared to Manoah's wife announcing Samson's birth
- 2Samson grew up here and the Spirit of God began to move him
- 3Samson buried here after his death at the Philistine temple
- 4Men of Dan sent spies from Zorah to find new territory
Key KJV Scriptures
"And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren, and bare not."
"Then his brethren and all the house of his father came down, and took him, and brought him up, and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the buryingplace of Manoah his father."
Spiritual Significance
Zorah is the birthplace of one of the Bible's most complex figures. Samson's story — from miraculous birth to tragic death — began and ended here, teaching that even extraordinary gifts must be paired with faithful obedience to fulfill God's purposes.
Why Zorah Matters
Zorah 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 Samson, Manoah linked to its story — Zorah 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, Zorah is referenced in 2 key scriptures that reveal God's faithfulness across generations. Zorah is the birthplace of one of the Bible's most complex figures. Samson's story — from miraculous birth to tragic death — began and ended here, teaching that even extraordinary gifts must be paired with faithful obedience to fulfill God's purposes.
For today's believer, studying Zorah 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 Zorah, you are standing on the same spiritual ground where Samson encountered the living God.
Related Bible Characters
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was born in Zorah?
Samson, the Nazirite judge who fought the Philistines, was born in Zorah to Manoah and his wife after an angelic announcement (Judges 13:2-24).
Where was Samson buried?
Samson was buried between Zorah and Eshtaol in his father Manoah's tomb (Judges 16:31).
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Related Bible Locations
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Ekron
The northernmost Philistine city to which the Ark was sent and where Baal-zebub was worshipped.
Gaza
The Philistine city where Samson was imprisoned and pulled down the temple of Dagon.
Where to go next
Finished reading about Zorah? Keep exploring the places and people of Scripture.
- Explore the full Bible locations mapEvery place in Scripture, by region.Continue
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