Ramoth-Gilead

Ramoth-Gilead, (Hebrew: רָמֹת גִּלְעָד; Douay-Rheims: Ramoth Galaad; meaning "Heights of Gilead"), is a city of refuge east of the Jordan river; called "Ramoth in Gilead" (Deuteronomy 4:43; Joshua 20:8; 21:38). It was in the tribal territorial allotment of the tribe of Gad.

Historical events

Here, during the battle of Ramoth Gilead between Israel and Arameans, Ahab of Israel joined Jehoshaphat in the battle but was mortally wounded by an arrow and died (1 Kings 22:1-36),he was propped up in his chariot facing his men but by evening, Ahab died and the Arameans won.

Later an incident occurred when Ahaziah and Joram fought against Hazael, king of Syria, and Joram was wounded (2 Kings 8:28).

In this city, Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, was anointed by one of the sons of the prophets (9:1, 4).

Location

It has with probability been identified with Reimun, on the northern slope of the Jabbok, about 5 miles west of Jerash or Gerasa, one of the cities of Decapolis.

Other possible locations include:

  1. Gerosh, about 25 miles north-east of Salt
  2. Ramath-Mizpeh.

References

This article incorporates text from Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897), a publication now in the public domain.