Joshua 13:17

to Heshbon and all its cities on the plateau, including Dibon, Bamoth-baal, Beth-baal-meon,

Study Bible

to Heshbon and all its cities on the plateau
Heshbon was a significant city in the territory of the Amorites, originally ruled by King Sihon. It became a central city for the tribe of Reuben after the Israelites conquered the land. The plateau refers to the elevated region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land. This area was strategically important for agriculture and defense. The conquest of Heshbon is detailed in Numbers 21:21-31, where Israel's victory over Sihon is recounted. The city's mention here underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to give Israel the land of the Amorites.

including Dibon
Dibon was another important city in the region, later associated with the tribe of Gad. It is mentioned in Numbers 32:3 as one of the cities requested by the tribes of Reuben and Gad for their inheritance. Archaeological findings, such as the Mesha Stele, have been discovered in this area, providing historical evidence of its significance. The stele, dating to the 9th century BC, records the victories of King Mesha of Moab, indicating the city's continued importance in the region.

Bamoth-baal
Bamoth-baal, meaning "high places of Baal," was a location associated with the worship of Baal, a Canaanite deity. This highlights the religious challenges Israel faced in maintaining their covenant with Yahweh amidst surrounding pagan practices. The site is mentioned in Numbers 22:41, where Balak takes Balaam to view the Israelites, indicating its strategic vantage point. The presence of such high places often led to idolatry, which the Israelites were repeatedly warned against.

Beth-baal-meon
Beth-baal-meon, also known as Baal-meon, was another city in the region, later given to the tribe of Reuben. Its name suggests it was a center for Baal worship, reflecting the syncretism that Israel had to combat. The city is mentioned in Ezekiel 25:9 as part of the judgment against Moab, indicating its continued relevance in the region's geopolitics. The struggle against idolatry in places like Beth-baal-meon serves as a reminder of the Israelites' call to be distinct and faithful to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Heshbon
A significant city in the territory of the Amorites, later given to the tribe of Reuben. It was a central city in the region and often mentioned in the context of Israel's conquests.

2. Dibon
Another city in the territory of Reuben, known for its high places and later for the Moabite Stone, which records the victories of King Mesha of Moab.

3. Bamoth-baal
A location associated with the worship of Baal, indicating the presence of pagan religious practices in the region.

4. Beth-baal-meon
A city whose name suggests it was a center for Baal worship, reflecting the religious challenges Israel faced in maintaining faithfulness to Yahweh.

5. The Plains
Refers to the flatlands in the region, which were fertile and strategically important for agriculture and settlement.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The allocation of these cities to the tribe of Reuben underscores the importance of following God's commands in distributing the land. Obedience to God's instructions leads to blessings and fulfillment of His promises.

Vigilance Against Idolatry
The mention of cities associated with Baal worship serves as a reminder of the constant threat of idolatry. Believers must remain vigilant in their faith and avoid the influences that lead away from God.

God's Sovereignty in History
The historical context of these cities shows God's hand in the affairs of nations. Understanding God's sovereignty helps believers trust Him in their personal lives and the broader world.

The Role of Memory in Faith
Remembering the history of these places can strengthen faith. Just as Israel was to remember their conquests and God's faithfulness, believers today can draw strength from recalling God's past faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the allocation of cities like Heshbon and Dibon to the tribe of Reuben about God's promises and their fulfillment?

2. How does the presence of places like Bamoth-baal and Beth-baal-meon challenge us to remain faithful in a world with competing beliefs?

3. In what ways does the history of these cities encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty over our personal and communal lives?

4. How can we apply the lessons of vigilance against idolatry in our modern context, where idols may not be as overt as in ancient times?

5. Reflect on a time when remembering God's past faithfulness helped you in a current situation. How can this practice be incorporated into your daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:25-30
Provides background on the conquest of Heshbon and its significance in Israel's journey to the Promised Land.

Isaiah 15:2
Mentions Dibon in the context of a prophecy against Moab, highlighting its continued importance in the region.

1 Kings 18:21
Although not directly related to these cities, this verse challenges Israel to choose between Yahweh and Baal, reflecting the ongoing struggle against idolatry.