Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.
(Heb.
tsaphon), a "hidden" or "dark place," as opposed to the sunny south (
Dt. 3:27). A Hebrew in speaking of the points of the compass was considered as always having his face to the east, and hence "the left hand" (
Gen. 14:15; Job 23:9) denotes the north. The "kingdoms of the north" are Chaldea, Assyria, Media, etc.