1. City and district in which Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob dwelt, about twenty-two miles south of Jerusalem. There also Sarah died, and was buried in the cave of Machpelah, as were also Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Rebekah, and Leah (Gen. 49:31). The city was built seven years before “Zoan in Egypt” and had been formerly called KIRJATH-ARBA. It was thus one of the most ancient cities known in the world. It was possessed by the Canaanites, until conquered by Joshua, and the city given to Caleb, in the portion of Judah. It afterward became a city of refuge. David reigned in Hebron seven and a half years (Gen. 13:18; Gen. 23:2,19; Num. 13:22; Josh. 10:36; Josh. 20:7; Judg. 1:10,20; 2 Sam. 2:11). There is still a large town on the spot, with some 18,000 inhabitants, called el Khulil, 31° 32' N, 35° 6' E. Also a mosque, said to be built over the cave of Machpelah. This is strictly guarded, very few being allowed to see the tomb.
Mosque at Hebron
2. City in Asher (Josh. 19:28). Not identified.
3. Son of Kohath, a son of Levi. His descendants are called HEBRONITES (Ex. 6:18; Num. 3:19,27; 1 Chron. 6:2,18; 1 Chron. 15:9; 1 Chron. 23:12,19).
4. One of the descendants of Caleb (1 Chron. 2:42-43).