Bible Dictionary
EPHRAIM, FOREST OF
A rough, rocky region east of the Jordan where Absalom was defeated and killed. Its exact location near Mahanaim has not been identified.
Definition
The Forest of Ephraim was a rough, rocky region east of the Jordan, characterized by stones, scrub, and occasional trees rather than a dense forest.
Biblical Usage
It was the place where Absalom was defeated and killed in David’s conflict with him.
Historical Background
Because the battle occurred near Mahanaim, the region must be sought east of the Jordan. Its exact identification remains unknown, and the Hebrew term may mean rough country rather than forest.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>(ya`ar 'ephrayim):</p><p>The word ya`ar (Hebrew) probably agrees in meaning with the Arabic wa`r, which indicates a rough country, abounding in rocks, stones and scrub, with occasional trees; not a "forest," as we understand the term. Here Absalom was defeated and slain (2Sa 18:6 ff, the King James Version "wood of Ephraim"). It must be sought, therefore, East of the Jordan, in the neighborhood of Mahanaim; but no identification is yet possible.</p>