Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Beesh-terah is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. The reference can be found in Joshua 21:27. Etymology and Meaning: The name "Beesh-terah" is believed to derive from Hebrew roots, with "Beesh" possibly meaning "house" and "terah" being less clear in its meaning. Some scholars suggest it could relate to a form of "Ashtoreth," a Canaanite goddess, though this is speculative. Historical and Geographical Context: Beesh-terah is identified as one of the Levitical cities given to the Gershonite clan of the Levites. It is located in the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, east of the Jordan River. This allocation is part of the broader distribution of cities to the Levites, who were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes of Israel. Biblical Significance: In Joshua 21:27, the Berean Standard Bible states: "To the Gershonites, one of the clans of the Levites, they gave from the half-tribe of Manasseh: Golan in Bashan, a city of refuge for the manslayer, and Beesh-terah—two cities, along with their pasturelands." This passage highlights Beesh-terah as one of the cities designated for the Levites, emphasizing its role in supporting the religious and societal structure of ancient Israel. Cultural and Theological Insights: The allocation of Beesh-terah to the Levites underscores the importance of providing for those who served in religious capacities. The Levites were responsible for the spiritual leadership and maintenance of the tabernacle, and later the temple, which was central to Israelite worship and community life. The provision of cities like Beesh-terah ensured that the Levites had places to live and resources to sustain their families while they fulfilled their duties. Archaeological and Scholarly Perspectives: While specific archaeological evidence for Beesh-terah is limited, its identification with Ashtaroth, a more prominent city in Bashan, is considered by some scholars. Ashtaroth was a significant city in the region, and its association with Beesh-terah suggests a possible overlap or renaming in the biblical text. This connection, however, remains a topic of scholarly debate. Conclusion: Beesh-terah serves as a testament to the careful organization and distribution of land among the tribes of Israel, reflecting the unique role of the Levites in the spiritual and communal life of the nation. Its mention in the biblical narrative provides insight into the historical and religious landscape of ancient Israel. Strong's Hebrew 1203. Beeshterah -- perhaps "house of Ashtoreth," a Levitical city ...... 1202, 1203. Beeshterah. 1204 . perhaps "house of Ashtoreth," a Levitical city ... Be-eshterah (1). Beeshterah. From ashtrah (as singular ... /hebrew/1203.htm - 6k Thesaurus Beeshterah (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASHTAROTH; ASHTEROTH-KARNAIM; BEESHTERAH. ... W. Ewing. BEESHTERAH. be-esh'-te-ra (Joshua 21:27). See ASHTAROTH. ... /b/beeshterah.htm - 12k Beesh'terah (1 Occurrence) Beesh-terah (1 Occurrence) Ashtaroth (13 Occurrences) Beetle (7 Occurrences) Eshtarah (1 Occurrence) Bees (5 Occurrences) Be-eshterah (1 Occurrence) Ashterothkarnaim Resources Who was Terah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Haran in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Abraham and Lot? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Beesh-terah (1 Occurrence)Joshua 21:27 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |