Ophir

Ophir was a region famous for its high-quality gold, which was imported to Israel during the reigns of David and Solomon.

Ophir was a region known for its abundant and fine gold, which was highly prized in ancient times. It is mentioned in connection with the wealth and splendor of King Solomon, who received gold from Ophir through his naval expeditions in partnership with Hiram, king of Tyre (1Kgs. 9:28; 10:11; 2Chr. 8:18; 9:10). The gold of Ophir was renowned for its purity and value, and it was used in the construction and decoration of the temple and royal palaces (1Chr. 29:4; 2Chr. 8:18). The location of Ophir is uncertain, but scholars have proposed various possibilities, including the Arabian Peninsula, the Horn of Africa, and India. In poetic and prophetic texts, Ophir is used as a symbol of wealth and prosperity (Job.22.24; 28:16; Ps. 45:9; Isa. 13:12).

Some region famous for its gold (1 Kings 9:28; 10:11; 22:48; Job 22:24; 28:16; Isa. 13:12). In the LXX. this word is rendered “Sophir,” and “Sofir” is the Coptic name for India, which is the rendering of the Arabic version, as also of the Vulgate. Josephus has identified it with the Golden Chersonese, i.e., the Malay peninsula. It is now generally identified with Abhira, at the mouth of the Indus. Much may be said, however, in favour of the opinion that it was somewhere in Arabia.