Bible Dictionary
Zair
Zair was a place where Joram, king of Judah, attacked the Edomites after their revolt. Its exact location is uncertain, though it has been associated with areas east or southeast of the Dead Sea.
Definition
Zair was a place connected with Joram’s campaign against the Edomites. Its location has not been identified with certainty.
Biblical Usage
Joram passed over to Zair with his chariots when he attacked the Edomites, who had revolted from him.
Historical Background
Zair has been placed east of the Dead Sea, and suggestions have included Mount Seir, Zoar, and ez-Zuweirah. The parallel account has been understood by some as preserving a reference to Joram’s captains rather than the place-name.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Little, a place probably east of the Dead Sea, where Joram discomfited the host of Edom who had revolted from him (2 Kings 8:21).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(small), a place named in (2 Kings 8:21) only, in the account of Joram’s expedition against the Edomites. It has been conjectured that Zair is identical with Zoar.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>za'-ir (tsa`ir; Zeior): When he invaded Edom, we are told that Joram passed over to Zair and all his chariots with him (2Ki 8:21). In the parallel passage (2Ch 21:9), "with his captains" (`im sarayw) takes the place of "to Zair" (tsa`irah), probably a copyist's corruption. The place has not been identified. Some have thought that Mt. Seir is intended; others that it means the town of Zoar. Conder suggested ez-Zuweirah, Southeast of the Dead Sea. If Zoar lay in this direction, it is the way by which an invading army might enter Edom.</p>