Overview
Geder appears in Scripture primarily as a place name in ancient Canaan and as a family name in genealogical records. King Joshua defeated the king of Geder during the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 12:13). The town was likely a fortified city in the lowlands of Judah.
Key Scriptures
"The king of Geder, one" (Joshua 12:13, ESV).
"And Jered fathered Gedor, and Heber fathered Soco, and Jekuthiel fathered Zanoah" (1 Chronicles 4:18, ESV).
"And the sons of Shimon were, Amnon, and Rinnah, Ben-hanan, and Tilon. And the sons of Ishi were, Zoheth and Ben-zoheth" (1 Chronicles 4:20, ESV)—noting genealogical context where Gedor family lines are mentioned.
Application
Understanding biblical place names like Geder enriches our comprehension of Scripture's historical accuracy and the reality of God's promises regarding the land given to Israel.