Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Berak is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribal allotments in the Book of Joshua. It is one of the towns assigned to the tribe of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name "Berak" is derived from the Hebrew root "ברק" (baraq), which means "lightning" or "flash." Biblical References: The primary reference to Berak is found in the Book of Joshua, which details the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 19:25, the town is listed among the cities given to the tribe of Asher: · "Their territory included Helkath, Hali, Beten, Achshaph, Allammelech, Amad, and Mishal. On the west the boundary touched Carmel and Shihor-libnath, then it turned eastward to Beth-dagon, reached Zebulun and the Valley of Iphtah-el, and went north to Beth-emek and Neiel, passing by Cabul on the left, and went on to Ebron, Rehob, Hammon, and Kanah, as far as Greater Sidon. The boundary then turned back toward Ramah and up to the fortified city of Tyre. Then it turned toward Hosah and ended at the sea in the region of Achzib, Ummah, Aphek, and Rehob. There were twenty-two cities, along with their villages." (Joshua 19:25-30) Historical and Geographical Context: Berak is situated within the territory of Asher, a region known for its fertile land and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. The tribe of Asher was located in the northern part of Israel, bordered by the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun to the east and the sea to the west. This area was known for its agricultural productivity, particularly olive oil, which is reflected in Jacob's blessing over Asher: "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide delicacies fit for a king." (Genesis 49:20) Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence for Berak is limited, the general region of Asher has been the subject of various excavations. These have revealed insights into the Canaanite and Israelite periods, showcasing the blend of cultures and the strategic importance of the area due to its trade routes and access to the sea. Theological Significance: The mention of Berak, along with other towns in the tribal allotments, underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land of Canaan. The distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel is a testament to God's faithfulness and the establishment of Israel as a nation. Each town and city, including Berak, represents a piece of the divine inheritance given to the descendants of the patriarchs. Conclusion: While Berak itself is not a focal point of biblical narratives, its inclusion in the tribal allotments highlights the comprehensive nature of God's promise to His people. The town's mention serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual journey of the Israelites as they settled in the land promised to their forefathers. Strong's Hebrew 1289. berak -- to kneel, bless... 1288, 1289. berak. 1290 . to kneel, bless. Transliteration: berak Phonetic Spelling: (ber-ak') Short Definition: blessed. ... 1288, 1289. berak. 1290 . ... /hebrew/1289.htm - 6k 1291. berak -- the knee 1139. Bene-beraq -- "sons of lightning," a city in Dan 755a. arkubbah -- the knee Library Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Thesaurus Berak (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Berak (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:45 Jehud, Bene Berak, Gath Rimmon, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS NIV). ... /b/berak.htm - 6k Bene-berak (1 Occurrence) Jehud (1 Occurrence) Gath-rimmon (4 Occurrences) Bene-be'rak (1 Occurrence) Beneberak (1 Occurrence) Berea (4 Occurrences) Gath-rim'mon (4 Occurrences) Gathrimmon (4 Occurrences) Bene (4 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Berak (1 Occurrence)Joshua 19:45 Subtopics Related Terms |