Moab, Historical kingdom in west-central Jordan
Moab was a historical kingdom in west-central Jordan that stretched along the eastern shore of the Dead Sea. The region featured mountainous terrain bordered by the Arnon and Zered rivers, which marked the boundaries of this ancient state.
Egyptian records from the reign of Ramesses II around 1250 BCE contain the earliest documented references to this kingdom. The Moabites maintained their presence in the region for centuries before declining during later periods of change.
The Moabite people spoke a language similar to ancient Hebrew, as shown on stone inscriptions found in the region. These writings reveal how they communicated and recorded important events about their rulers and beliefs.
The sites of this ancient kingdom are scattered across the region, making it difficult to explore on foot without planning. It is helpful to travel with a guide who can navigate the archaeological locations and explain what you are seeing.
This kingdom controlled the King's Highway, one of the most important trade routes of the ancient world connecting Egypt with Damascus. This control made the Moabites key players in commerce between two major centers of power in the ancient world.
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