Dictionary Summary: From the solemn transaction of the reading of the law in the valley of Shechem between Ebal and Gerizim the Israelites moved forward to Gilgal, and there made a permanent camp ([Josh. 9:6](/josh#Josh.9.6); [10:6](/josh#Josh.10.6)). It was “beside the oaks of Moreh,” near which Abraham erected his first altar ([Gen. 12:6](/gen#Gen.12.6), [7](/gen#Gen.12.7)). This was one of the three towns to which Samuel resorted for the administration of justice ([1 Sam. 7:16](/1sam#1Sam.7.16)), and here also he offered sacrifices when the ark was no longer in the tabernacle at Shiloh ([1 Sam. 10:8](/1sam#1Sam.10.8); [13:7-9](/1sam#1Sam.13.7)). To this place, as to a central sanctuary, all Israel gathered to renew their allegiance to Saul (11:14). At a later period it became the scene of idolatrous worship ([Hos. 4:15](/hos#Hos.4.15); [9:15](/hos#Hos.9.15)). It has been identified with the ruins of Jiljilieh, about 5 miles south-west of Shiloh and about the same distance from Bethel. ²