Bible Dictionary
CARNAIM
Carnaim was a fortified city east of the Jordan captured by Judas Maccabeus. It was apparently associated with Ashteroth Karnaim and contained a temple of Atargatis.
Definition
Carnaim was a strong city east of the Jordan captured by Judas Maccabeus. It was also called Karnion or Camion in related accounts.
Biblical Usage
During his campaign east of the Jordan, Judas besieged and captured Carnaim. Those who fled into the temple of Atargatis were put to death.
Historical Background
Carnaim is apparently identical with Ashteroth Karnaim. The city contained a temple of Atargatis, which was involved in the account of its capture.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>kar-na'-im, kar'-na-im (Karnein, 1 Macc 5:26, Karnain, verses 43 f, to Karnion, 2 Macc 12:21,26): One of the strong cities besieged and captured by Judas Maccabeus in his campaign East of the Jordan (1 Macc 5:26,43 f). In the temple of Atargatis, which was situated here, those who fled from the city were put to death. It is apparently identical with Ashteroth Karnaim. It is called Camion in 2 Macc 12:21.</p>