The region of Samaria, located in the central part of ancient Israel, holds significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. It was named after the city of Samaria, which became the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel during the reign of King Omri (1 Kings 16:24). The cities of Samaria are frequently mentioned throughout the Old and New Testaments, reflecting their role in the religious, political, and social life of the Israelites.

Samaria (City): The city of Samaria was established by King Omri and served as the capital of the Northern Kingdom. It is noted for its idolatrous practices, which were introduced by subsequent kings, including Ahab, who built an altar for Baal there (1 Kings 16:32). The prophet Elijah confronted these practices, challenging the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18). Samaria fell to the Assyrians in 722 BC, leading to the exile of many Israelites and the introduction of foreign peoples into the land (2 Kings 17:6).

Shechem: Shechem is one of the oldest and most significant cities in Samaria. It was the first capital of the Northern Kingdom before the establishment of Samaria. Shechem is where Joshua renewed the covenant with the Israelites (Joshua 24:1-25) and where Rehoboam was rejected as king by the northern tribes, leading to the division of the kingdom (1 Kings 12:1-19).

Bethel: Located on the border of Samaria and Judah, Bethel was a significant religious center. Jeroboam I established one of the two golden calves here, leading Israel into sin (1 Kings 12:28-29). The prophet Amos condemned the idolatry practiced at Bethel (Amos 3:14).

Jezreel: Known for its fertile valley, Jezreel was a royal city during the reign of Ahab and Jezebel. It is infamous for the events surrounding Naboth's vineyard and the subsequent judgment pronounced by Elijah (1 Kings 21). Jezreel was also the site of Jehu's purge of Ahab's house (2 Kings 9:30-37).

Shiloh: Although not always considered part of Samaria, Shiloh holds historical significance as the location of the Tabernacle before the establishment of Jerusalem as the religious center. It was here that Hannah prayed for a son, resulting in the birth of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:9-20).

Sychar: Mentioned in the New Testament, Sychar is the site of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well (John 4:5-42). This event highlights the tension between Jews and Samaritans and underscores Jesus' message of salvation for all people.

Dothan: Known for its association with the account of Joseph, Dothan is where Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery (Genesis 37:17-28). It later became a site of prophetic activity, as Elisha's servant witnessed the heavenly army surrounding the city (2 Kings 6:13-17).

The cities of Samaria, with their rich history and complex interactions with the surrounding regions, provide a backdrop for many pivotal events in the biblical narrative. They serve as reminders of the faithfulness and judgment of God, as well as the ongoing call to worship Him in spirit and truth.