Gilgal

Gilgal (gil'găl) [key], in the Bible. 1. First encampment of the Israelites near Jericho, W of the Jordan; Saul was made king there. It was also the scene of Saul's impetuous sacrifice before battle in the absence of Samuel, who, as a result, declared divine rejection of him. 2. Place, N of Bethel, scene of Elijah's translation to heaven in a fiery chariot, as related in 2 Kings.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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