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HERMON.—The highest mountain in Syria (9050 ft. high), a spur of the Anti-Lebanon. Its name means ‘apart’ or ‘sanctuary,’ and refers to its ancient sanctity (cf. Psa_89:12; and the name ‘mount Baal-hermon,’ Jdg_3:3). Meagre traces of ruins remain on its summit, probably connected, at least partly, with a former high place. According to Deu_3:9, it was called Sirion by the Sidonians and Senir (wh. see) by the Amorites. It may have been the scene of the Transfiguration (Mar_9:2). The summit has three peaks, that on the S. E. being the highest. Snow lies on the top throughout the year, except in the autumn of some years; but usually there is a certain amount in the ravines. The top is bare above the snow-line; below it is richly wooded and covered with vineyards. The Syrian bear can sometimes be seen here; seldom, if ever, anywhere else. The modern name is Jebet esh-Sheikh, ‘the Mountain of the Chief.’
R. A. S. Macalister.