Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Beneberak is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is listed among the cities in the territory allotted to the tribe of Dan. The specific reference can be found in Joshua 19:45: "Jehud, Beneberak, Gath-rimmon." Historical and Geographical Context: Beneberak, meaning "Sons of Lightning" or "Sons of Barak," was a city located in the region assigned to the tribe of Dan. The tribe of Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and the first son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. The territory of Dan was situated in the central coastal area of Canaan, which is part of modern-day Israel. The city of Beneberak was likely situated near the Mediterranean coast, in proximity to other Danite cities such as Jehud and Gath-rimmon. The exact location of ancient Beneberak is not definitively known today, but it is generally associated with the area near the modern city of Bnei Brak, a suburb of Tel Aviv. This modern city, while not directly linked to the ancient site, carries a name reminiscent of its biblical predecessor. Cultural and Theological Significance: The mention of Beneberak in the allotment of land to the tribe of Dan highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites regarding the division of the Promised Land. Each tribe received its inheritance, and the listing of cities like Beneberak underscores the historical and geographical reality of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. The tribe of Dan, however, faced challenges in fully possessing their allotted territory. The coastal region, including areas like Beneberak, was inhabited by the Philistines and other Canaanite peoples, which often led to conflicts. The struggle for control over these areas is a recurring theme in the narrative of the Israelites' settlement and expansion. Archaeological Insights: While there is limited direct archaeological evidence specifically identifying ancient Beneberak, the broader region has been the subject of numerous archaeological studies. These studies provide insights into the Canaanite and Philistine cultures that the Israelites encountered. Artifacts and ruins from the period offer a glimpse into the life and challenges faced by the tribes of Israel, including Dan, as they sought to establish themselves in the land. Biblical Lessons and Reflections: The account of Beneberak and the other cities of Dan serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and perseverance in the face of adversity. The tribe of Dan's struggles to secure their inheritance can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual battles faced by believers. The narrative encourages reliance on God's promises and the pursuit of His purposes, even when confronted with formidable obstacles. In summary, Beneberak is a testament to the historical reality of the Israelite settlement in Canaan and serves as a point of reflection on the challenges and triumphs of God's people as they sought to live out their covenant relationship with Him. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary BeneberakSmith's Bible Dictionary Beneberak(son of lightning), one of the cities of the tribe of Dan, mentioned only in (Joshua 19:45) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BENE-BERAKben-e-be'-rak (bene beraq; Banebarak): A town in the territory of Dan (Joshua 19:45), represented by the modern village Ibn Ibraq, about an hour Southeast of Jaffa. Thesaurus Beneberak (1 Occurrence)... Southeast of Jaffa. Multi-Version Concordance Beneberak (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:45 And Jehud, and Beneberak, and Gathrimmon, (KJV DBY). ... /b/beneberak.htm - 6k Gathrimmon (4 Occurrences) Bene-barak (1 Occurrence) Bene-berak (1 Occurrence) Philistines (224 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Beneberak (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:45 Subtopics Related Terms |
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