Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Baalperazim" is derived from Hebrew, where "Baal" means "lord" or "master," and "Perazim" means "breaches" or "breakthroughs." Thus, Baalperazim can be translated as "Lord of Breakthroughs" or "Master of Breaches."

Biblical References:
Baalperazim is mentioned in the context of King David's military victories over the Philistines. The primary reference is found in 2 Samuel 5:20 and 1 Chronicles 14:11.

2 Samuel 5:20 :
"So David went to Baal-perazim, where he defeated them and said, 'Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me.' So he called that place Baal-perazim."

1 Chronicles 14:11 :
"So David and his men went up to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, 'Like a bursting flood, God has burst out against my enemies by my hand.' So they called that place Baal-perazim."

Historical and Theological Significance:
Baalperazim holds significant historical and theological importance as it marks a decisive victory for David over the Philistines, a persistent enemy of Israel. This victory is attributed directly to divine intervention, emphasizing the belief in God's active role in the affairs of His chosen people. The name itself, "Lord of Breakthroughs," underscores the miraculous nature of the victory, suggesting that God can and does intervene in seemingly insurmountable situations to bring about deliverance for His people.

Context and Background:
The events at Baalperazim occur shortly after David is anointed king over all Israel. The Philistines, upon hearing of David's anointing, seek to challenge his rule by attacking him. David inquires of the LORD whether he should go up against the Philistines, and God assures him of victory. The subsequent triumph at Baalperazim not only consolidates David's kingship but also serves as a testament to his reliance on divine guidance.

Symbolism and Application:
Baalperazim symbolizes God's power to break through obstacles and deliver His people from their adversaries. For believers, it serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His ability to overcome challenges. The narrative encourages faith in God's promises and His capacity to act decisively in the lives of those who follow Him.

Location:
The exact geographical location of Baalperazim is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to be in the vicinity of the Valley of Rephaim, near Jerusalem. This proximity to the capital city underscores the strategic importance of the victory for David's reign.

Cultural and Religious Impact:
The victory at Baalperazim reinforced the perception of David as a divinely appointed leader and warrior. It also contributed to the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel. The event is a testament to the belief in God's sovereignty and His willingness to act on behalf of His people, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative.Baal having rents, bursts, or destructions, the scene of a victory gained by David over the Philistines (2 Samuel 5:20; 1 Chronicles 14:11). Called Mount Perazim (Isaiah 28:21). It was near the valley of Rephaim, west of Jerusalem. Identified with the modern Jebel Aly. BAAL-PERAZIM

ba-al-pe-ra'-zim, ba-al-per'-azim ba`al peratsim; Baal'pharasein, ("the lord of breakings through"): The spot in or near the Valley of Rephaim where David obtained a signal victory over the Philistines; it was higher than Jerusalem for David asked, "Shall I go up against the Philis?" (2 Samuel 5:20 1 Chronicles 14:11). The exact site is unknown, but if the Vale of Rephaim is el Beka`a, the open valley between Jerusalem and Mar Elias, then Baal-perazim would probably be the mountains to the East near what is called the "Mount of Evil Counsel" (see JERUSALEM). The Mount Perazim of Isaiah 28:21 would appear to be the same spot.

E. W. G. Masterman

Baalperazim (2 Occurrences)
... EWG Masterman. Multi-Version Concordance Baalperazim (2 Occurrences). ... Therefore
he called the name of that place Baalperazim. (KJV). ...
/b/baalperazim.htm - 8k

Breaking (69 Occurrences)
... After the wind an earthquake; but Yahweh was not in the earthquake. (See NAS). 1
Chronicles 14:11 So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. ...
/b/breaking.htm - 27k

Baal-perazim (2 Occurrences)
Baal-perazim. Baalperazim, Baal-perazim. Ba'al-pera'zim . ... (ASV BBE DBY JPS WBS
YLT NAS). Baalperazim, Baal-perazim. Ba'al-pera'zim . Reference Bible.
/b/baal-perazim.htm - 8k

Rephaim (32 Occurrences)
... The scene of this victory was afterwards called Baalperazim (qv). A second time,
however, the Philistines rallied their forces in this valley (2 Samuel 5:22). ...
/r/rephaim.htm - 21k

Ba'al-pe'or (2 Occurrences)
Ba'al-pe'or. Baal-peor, Ba'al-pe'or. Baalperazim . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(See RSV). Baal-peor, Ba'al-pe'or. Baalperazim . Reference Bible.
/b/ba'al-pe'or.htm - 7k

Break (257 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 14:11 So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there.
Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies ...
/b/break.htm - 46k

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