Zereda, also known as Zeredah or Zeredathah, was a city located in the northern region of Mount Ephraim, within the territory of the tribe of Manasseh. It is notably recognized as the birthplace of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, who later became the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the united monarchy. The Bible mentions Zereda in 1 Kings 11:26, stating, "Then Solomon’s servant, Jeroboam the son of Nebat, an Ephraimite from Zereda... also rebelled against the king." This passage highlights Zereda's significance as Jeroboam's hometown and its association with his rise to power. Additionally, Zereda is referenced in 2 Chronicles 4:17 in the context of the casting of metalwork for the temple, indicating its involvement in significant religious activities during that period. The exact geographical location of Zereda remains uncertain, with scholars proposing various sites in the Jordan Valley region. Some suggest it corresponds to Khirbet Banat Bar, an archaeological site identified as Zereda, located on the northern foothills of a ridge overlooking the Shiloh valley. This site features remains of an Iron Age village, including a fortress, agricultural installations, and natural caves, reflecting the area's historical significance. Despite these findings, the precise location of Zereda continues to be a subject of scholarly debate, and further archaeological research is needed to conclusively identify its location.
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