Introduction:
Beeroth is a town mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the context of the Gibeonite cities. It is one of the four cities of the Hivites that made a treaty with Joshua and the Israelites during their conquest of Canaan. The name "Beeroth" means "wells" in Hebrew, indicating the presence of water sources which were vital for settlement and survival in the ancient Near East.

Biblical References:
Beeroth is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 9:17 , it is listed among the cities of the Gibeonites: "So the Israelites set out and on the third day came to their cities—Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim." The Gibeonites, including the inhabitants of Beeroth, deceived Joshua into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land (Joshua 9:3-15). Despite the deception, the treaty was honored due to the oath made before God, and the Gibeonites were spared but made servants (Joshua 9:20-21).

Beeroth is also mentioned in the context of the tribal allotments. It is included in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin as described in Joshua 18:25 : "Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth." This indicates its geographical and tribal significance within the land distribution among the Israelites.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Beeroth is traditionally identified with the modern village of el-Bireh, located approximately 10 miles north of Jerusalem. The location is consistent with its association with the other Gibeonite cities. The presence of wells or water sources would have made Beeroth a strategic and valuable location in the arid climate of the region.

Notable Figures:
Beeroth is mentioned in connection with several notable biblical figures. In 2 Samuel 4:2-3 , it is noted that the Beerothites fled to Gittaim and have lived there as foreigners to this day. This passage is part of the narrative concerning the assassination of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, by two men from Beeroth, Baanah and Rechab, who were captains of raiding bands.

Additionally, Beeroth is the hometown of Naharai, the armor-bearer of Joab, the commander of King David's army, as mentioned in 2 Samuel 23:37 and 1 Chronicles 11:39 .

Cultural and Theological Significance:
The account of Beeroth and the Gibeonites highlights themes of covenant, deception, and divine providence. Despite the Gibeonites' deceit, the Israelites honored their oath, demonstrating the importance of keeping one's word, especially when made before God. This narrative also illustrates God's sovereignty in using unexpected means to fulfill His purposes, as the Gibeonites became servants within Israel, contributing to the community in roles such as woodcutters and water carriers (Joshua 9:27).

Beeroth's inclusion in the tribal allotments of Benjamin underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan. The town's historical and geographical context provides insight into the daily life and challenges faced by the ancient Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land.Bee-Roth

Wells, a city of Benjamin, near Gibeon, Joshua 9:17. It is now El- Bireh, a village of 700 inhabitants, on a ridge seven miles north of Jerusalem.

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