Author(s)

Xiaozhe Li ¹

Affiliation(s)

¹ National Centre for Archaeology, Beijing, 100020, China

Corresponding Author

Xiaozhe Li

ABSTRACT

This study examines settlement patterns at key sites in the Jezreel Valley (Tel Rehov, Tel Yoqne'am, Tell Ta'annek, Megiddo) during the Iron I–IIA transition (early 10th to late 9th century BCE). By reconciling High and Low Chronology debates through archaeological evidence, the analysis reveals a process of gradual, continuous development rather than abrupt change. Key findings include: settlement continuity, territorial consolidation, and regional distinctiveness. The data demonstrate that the Jezreel Valley served as a nucleus for Israelite expansion, with Megiddo emerging as a strategic administrative hub by the 9th century BCE. This gradual evolution underscores the valley's role in shaping early Israelite territorial foundations.

KEYWORDS

Jezreel Valley; Iron Age I–IIA Transition; Settlement Patterns; Israelite Territorial Expansion

CITE THIS PAPER

Xiaozhe Li. Settlement Pattern during the Transition Period from the Iron I to Iron IIA in the Jezreel Valley. Journal of Sociology and Ethnology (2026). Vol. 8, No.1, 99-104. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/jsoce.2026.080113.

REFERENCES

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