Jarmuth

Tel Yarmuth was a major fortified urban center during the Early Bronze Age, substantially earlier than the biblical monarchy. Archaeological excavations have uncovered massive fortifications, monumental architecture, residential areas, and evidence for complex urban organization.

The settlement history of the mound extended through multiple periods, although its size and importance changed considerably through time.

Its position in the Shephelah placed Jarmuth within a strategically important zone connecting the coastal plain with the Judean hill country.

Biblical Jarmuth is very securely identified with Tel Yarmuth, also known as Khirbet Yarmuk, near modern Beit Shemesh.

The preservation of the ancient name, geographical correspondence with the biblical descriptions, and archaeological evidence strongly support the identification.

AVWJ can therefore present Tel Yarmuth confidently as the location of biblical Jarmuth while avoiding claims that particular excavated structures can be associated with the king or events described in Joshua.