Hebron is one of the oldest cities mentioned in the Bible. It holds deep spiritual, historical, and political meaning in both the Old and New Testaments. From the time of Abraham to King David, Hebron has played a central role in the story of God’s people.
1. Hebron Is One of the Oldest Cities in the World
Hebron dates back to ancient times. It is first mentioned in Genesis 13:18 when Abraham settles by the oaks of Mamre near Hebron:
“So Abram moved his tents and went to live near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the Lord.” (Genesis 13:18, NIV)
2. Abraham Bought a Burial Site in Hebron
Hebron is where Abraham purchased the Cave of Machpelah as a family burial ground. This was the first piece of land owned by a Hebrew in Canaan.
“So the field and the cave in it were deeded to Abraham by the Hittites as a burial site.” (Genesis 23:20, NIV)
3. Hebron Was Given to Caleb
After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance because of his faithfulness to God.
“So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the Lord, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly.” (Joshua 14:14, NIV)
4. King David Was Crowned in Hebron
Before ruling all of Israel, David was first anointed king of Judah in Hebron and reigned there for seven years.
“In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.” (2 Samuel 5:5, NIV)
5. Hebron Was a City of Refuge
God commanded that six cities be set aside as places of refuge for people who accidentally killed someone. Hebron was one of them.
“So they set apart Kedesh... Shechem... and Kiriath Arba (that is, Hebron).” (Joshua 20:7, NIV)
6. Giants Once Lived in Hebron
Before Caleb claimed the land, Hebron was inhabited by giants—the Anakim. These giants caused fear among the Israelites.
“Hebron had been built seven years before Zoan in Egypt. There we saw the Nephilim... we seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes.” (Numbers 13:22, 33, NIV)
7. Hebron Was in the Hill Country of Judah
Hebron was a mountain city in Judah, giving it both strategic and symbolic importance.
“Then Joshua blessed Caleb... and gave him Hebron as his inheritance.” (Joshua 14:13, NIV)
8. Abraham Built an Altar There
One of the first things Abraham did in Hebron was build an altar. This showed his desire to worship and honor God in the land.
“There he built an altar to the Lord.” (Genesis 13:18, NIV)
9. Hebron Had Political Relevance in Later Years
Hebron remained important throughout Israel’s history. Even Absalom, David’s son, chose Hebron to start his rebellion.
“Absalom sent secret messengers... saying, ‘As soon as you hear the sound of the trumpet, then say, Absalom is king at Hebron!’” (2 Samuel 15:10, NIV)
10. Hebron Points to God's Promises
From Abraham’s covenant to David’s reign, Hebron reflects God’s promise to bless His people with land, leadership, and legacy.
“I will give this land to your descendants.” (Genesis 15:18, NIV)
Summary Table
| Fact | Verse Reference | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Oldest city | Genesis 13:18 | Abraham lived near Hebron |
| Burial site | Genesis 23:20 | Sarah was buried there |
| Caleb's reward | Joshua 14:14 | Caleb given Hebron |
| David’s rule began here | 2 Samuel 5:5 | David ruled 7 years in Hebron |
| City of refuge | Joshua 20:7 | Safe place for accidental killings |
| Land of giants | Numbers 13:22, 33 | Anakim lived there |
| Hill country location | Joshua 14:13 | Part of Judah’s hill country |
| Altar of worship | Genesis 13:18 | Abraham built an altar |
| Absalom’s rebellion | 2 Samuel 15:10 | Political revolt started here |
| Fulfillment of God’s promise | Genesis 15:18 | Covenant with Abraham |
