Baean is a figure mentioned in the context of the Maccabean period, specifically within the historical accounts found in the books of the Maccabees, which are part of the Apocrypha. The name "Baean" is associated with a group or family that played a role during the tumultuous times of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire.

Historical Context

The Maccabean revolt (circa 167-160 BC) was a Jewish rebellion led by the Maccabees against the Seleucid Empire and the Hellenistic influence on Jewish life. This period is characterized by the struggle for religious freedom and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, an event commemorated by the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.

Role in the Maccabean Period

The Baean family is mentioned in 1 Maccabees 5:4, where they are identified as a group that opposed the Maccabees. The text describes how Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, in their campaign to secure the Jewish territories and eliminate threats, encountered the Baeans. The Baeans were among those who harassed the Israelites, and Judas took action against them to protect his people and maintain the integrity of the Jewish nation.

Biblical Reference

While the Berean Standard Bible does not include the Apocryphal books, the reference to the Baeans can be found in other translations of 1 Maccabees 5:4. The passage highlights the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and his efforts to subdue hostile groups that threatened the Jewish community during this period of upheaval.

Significance

The mention of the Baeans, though brief, underscores the numerous challenges faced by the Maccabees in their quest to restore Jewish autonomy and religious practices. The Baeans represent one of the many adversaries that the Maccabees had to confront in their struggle against both external and internal threats. This account reflects the broader theme of perseverance and divine providence that is prevalent throughout the Maccabean narrative.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the account of the Maccabees, including their encounters with groups like the Baeans, illustrates the enduring faith and resilience of the Jewish people. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering His people from oppression and ensuring the survival of His covenant community. The Maccabean victories are often seen as a precursor to the ultimate deliverance brought about through the coming of the Messiah, as anticipated in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Conclusion

The Baeans, though a minor detail in the grand narrative of the Maccabean revolt, contribute to the rich tapestry of Jewish history during this era. Their mention in the historical accounts serves as a reminder of the diverse challenges faced by the Maccabees and the enduring legacy of their struggle for faith and freedom.BAEAN

be'-an huioi Baian; the King James Version Bean; 1 Maccabees 5:4: A tribe mentioned only because of its malignant hatred of the Jews. Its aggressive hostility against their religion and the rebuilding of their sanctuary duplicated the conspiracy of Sanballat and his confederates against the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple in the days of Nehemiah (compare Nehemiah 4:7, 8). Utterly exterminated by Judas Maccabeus who burned alive, in towers, many of the imprisoned people. See MAON.

Baean
...BAEAN. be'-an huioi Baian; the King James Version Bean; 1 Maccabees 5:4: A tribe
mentioned only because of its malignant hatred of the Jews. ...
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Badness (5 Occurrences)

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Baffled (4 Occurrences)

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Bean
... 2. (n.) The popular name of other vegetable seeds or fruits, more or less resembling
true beans. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BEAN. be'-an. See BAEAN. ...
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