Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
" 2 Chr 20:20; Jer 6:1. It was colonized by Asher, 1 Chr 2:24; 1 Chr 4:5; fortified by Rehoboam. 2 Chr 11:6. The "wise woman" who interceded for Absalom resided here, 2 Sam 14:2, 2 Sam 14:4, 2 Sam 14:9, and here also was the birthplace and residence of the prophet Amos. Am 1:1. Tekoa was situated about 5 miles south of Bethlehem, at a place still called Tek'na, on a broad hilltop. The region is bleak and desolate, and the inhabitants wild and uncivil. There is a fine view toward the east, and the Dead Sea is visible.
"The ruins at this place are extensive [covering 4 or 5 acres], but uninteresting. " There are ruins of a Greek church and baptismal font and of a fortress.