Topical Encyclopedia Bahu'rim is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the historical narratives of the books of Samuel and Kings. It is situated in the tribal territory of Benjamin, near the Mount of Olives, and plays a significant role in several key biblical events.Biblical References: 1. David's Flight from Absalom: Bahu'rim is notably mentioned during King David's flight from his son Absalom. As David fled Jerusalem, he encountered Shimei, a man from the house of Saul, who cursed him and threw stones at him. This event is recorded in 2 Samuel 16:5-13. Shimei's actions were a manifestation of the lingering tensions between the house of Saul and David's reign. Despite the provocation, David chose to show restraint, interpreting Shimei's cursing as possibly ordained by God. · 2 Samuel 16:5-6 : "As King David approached Bahu'rim, a man from the same clan as Saul’s family came out from there. His name was Shimei son of Gera, and he cursed as he came out. He pelted David and all the king’s officials with stones, though all the troops and the special guard were on David’s right and left." 2. Michal's Deception: Bahu'rim is also the place where Michal, the daughter of Saul and wife of David, deceived her father’s messengers. When Saul sent men to capture David, Michal helped David escape through a window and then used an idol to make it appear as though David was still in bed. This incident is recounted in 1 Samuel 19:11-17, although Bahu'rim is not directly named in this passage, it is traditionally associated with the area. 3. The Hiding of Jonathan and Ahimaaz: During Absalom's rebellion, Bahu'rim served as a place of refuge for Jonathan and Ahimaaz, the messengers of David. They were hidden in a well by a loyal woman when Absalom's men were searching for them. This act of loyalty and bravery is detailed in 2 Samuel 17:17-21. · 2 Samuel 17:18-19 : "But a young man saw them and told Absalom. So the two of them left quickly and went to the house of a man in Bahu'rim. He had a well in his courtyard, and they climbed down into it. His wife took a covering and spread it over the opening of the well and scattered grain over it, so no one knew anything." Historical and Theological Significance: Bahu'rim's role in these narratives highlights the complex political and familial dynamics during the reign of David. The incidents at Bahu'rim reflect themes of loyalty, betrayal, and divine providence. David's encounter with Shimei, in particular, underscores his humility and trust in God's justice, as he refrains from retaliating against Shimei's curses. The location also serves as a backdrop for the unfolding of God's plan for David's kingship, illustrating how God uses various people and places to fulfill His purposes. Bahu'rim, though a minor location, is integral to the narrative of David's life and the broader account of Israel's monarchy. Archaeological and Geographical Context: While the exact location of Bahu'rim is not definitively known today, it is generally believed to be near the modern village of Al-Eizariya, east of Jerusalem. The geographical setting of Bahu'rim, near the Mount of Olives and the road to the Jordan Valley, made it a strategic location during the events of David's reign. In summary, Bahu'rim is a significant biblical site that provides insight into the historical and spiritual landscape of ancient Israel, illustrating the interplay of human actions and divine sovereignty in the biblical narrative. Concordance Bahu'rim (6 Occurrences)2 Samuel 3:16 2 Samuel 16:5 2 Samuel 17:18 2 Samuel 19:16 2 Samuel 23:31 1 Kings 2:8 Thesaurus Bahu'rim (6 Occurrences)Bahu'rim. Bahurim, Bahu'rim. Bail . Multi-Version Concordance Bahu'rim (6 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 3:16 And her husband went with ... /b/bahu'rim.htm - 8k Bahurim (7 Occurrences) Bail (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |