Bible Dictionary
Left hand
Among the Hebrews, the left hand indicated the north when a person faced east. This directional usage appears in descriptions of locations and boundaries.
Definition
The left hand is the hand opposite the right. In Hebrew directional language, it could also designate the north when a person faced east.
Biblical Usage
The directional sense appears in descriptions of locations and movements, including Job 23:9 and Genesis 14:15.
Historical Background
The usage assumes the customary orientation of a person facing east; the left side therefore corresponded to the north.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Among the Hebrews, denoted the north (Job 23:9; Gen. 14:15), the face of the person being supposed to be toward the east.