Jebusites

The Jebusites were an ancient Semitic people who inhabited the region of Jerusalem and the surrounding area during the Iron Age, approximately from the 12th century BCE to the 6th century BCE. They are mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the Book of Joshua and the Book of Judges, where they are described as the inhabitants of the city of Jerusalem before the Israelites conquered it.

The Jebusites are often associated with the Canaanites, another group of Semitic people who inhabited the region during the same period. The term "Jebusites" is derived from the Hebrew word "Yebusites," which means "inhabitants of Jebus," the ancient name for Jerusalem.

The Jebusites are mentioned in the context of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. According to the Book of Joshua, the Israelites fought against the Jebusites and eventually defeated them, taking possession of the city of Jerusalem. The Book of Judges also mentions the Jebusites in the context of the Israelites' struggles against various Canaanite tribes.

The exact origins and history of the Jebusites are not well-documented, and their language and culture are not well-known. However, they are an important part of the historical and archaeological record of the region, and their presence in Jerusalem has significant implications for the city's history and development.