Overview:
Gilo is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal allotments and historical narratives of Israel. It is primarily recognized as a town in the hill country of Judah and is associated with notable biblical figures and events.

Biblical References:
Gilo is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the territorial allotment to the tribe of Judah. In Joshua 15:51, it is listed among the towns in the hill country: "Goshen, Holon, and Giloh—eleven cities, along with their villages."

Historical and Geographical Context:
Gilo is situated in the mountainous region of Judah, an area characterized by its rugged terrain and strategic significance. The hill country of Judah was known for its fortified cities and agricultural productivity, providing a natural defense and sustenance for its inhabitants.

Notable Figures:
One of the most significant figures associated with Gilo is Ahithophel, a counselor to King David. Ahithophel is described as a Gilonite, indicating his origin from Gilo. His account is particularly noted in the context of Absalom's rebellion against David. In 2 Samuel 15:12, it is recorded: "While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from his city of Giloh. So the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept increasing."

Ahithophel's involvement in Absalom's conspiracy highlights the political intrigue and familial strife within David's reign. His eventual betrayal and subsequent suicide (2 Samuel 17:23) underscore the tragic consequences of rebellion and the complexities of loyalty and counsel in the biblical narrative.

Theological Significance:
Gilo, as a part of the tribal inheritance of Judah, represents the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing divine faithfulness and the establishment of Israel as a nation.

The account of Ahithophel, the Gilonite, serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride, betrayal, and the pursuit of power. His life and actions are often examined in theological discussions about wisdom, counsel, and the moral responsibilities of those in positions of influence.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of ancient Gilo is not definitively identified, it is generally associated with the modern site of Khirbet Jala, near Jerusalem. Archaeological findings in the region provide insights into the lifestyle, architecture, and cultural practices of the inhabitants during the biblical period.

Conclusion:
Gilo's mention in the biblical text, though brief, is significant due to its association with key historical events and figures. Its inclusion in the tribal allotments of Judah and the narrative of Ahithophel's life contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's history as recorded in the Scriptures.Gilo (1 Occurrence)

2 Samuel 23:34
Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maacathite, Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite,
(Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Gilo (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gilo (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 23:34 Eliphelet
the son of Ahasbai, the son of the Maacathite, Eliam the ...
/g/gilo.htm - 6k

Giloh (2 Occurrences)

/g/giloh.htm - 8k

Increasing (61 Occurrences)
... (BBE). 2 Samuel 15:12 and Absalom sendeth Ahithophel the Gilonite, a counsellor
of David, out of his city, out of Gilo, in his sacrificing sacrifices; and the ...
/i/increasing.htm - 24k

Gilgal (39 Occurrences)

/g/gilgal.htm - 27k

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