ʿAdullam

\u02bfAdullam is an ancient city and a modern development region located in central Israel. The ancient site, Tel \u02bfAdullam, is situated southwest of Jerusalem.1

Historically, \u02bfAdullam is mentioned in the book of Genesis in relation to Judah, son of Jacob. After the Israelite conquest, it was assigned to the tribe of Judah. During King David's time, he and his followers found refuge in its fortified caves. Later, it was fortified by Rehoboam, the first king of Judah, but was subsequently captured by Pharaoh Sheshonk I of Egypt. The city was reoccupied after the Babylonian Exile and later taken by Judas Maccabeus from Antiochus IV Epiphanes' generals.1

In modern times, the name \u02bfAdullam refers to a planned development region established in 1958. This area, west of Jerusalem, includes the ancient site and features agricultural villages and rural centers.1

The term "cave of Adullam" is also used metaphorically to describe a group of people who have seceded from a particular political or intellectual position, stemming from David's refuge in the biblical cave.2