Beth-gader is a location mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the tribe of Judah. The name "Beth-gader" translates to "house of the wall" or "house of the enclosure," suggesting a fortified or enclosed settlement. It is referenced in 1 Chronicles 2:51, which states, "Salma the father of Bethlehem, Hareph the father of Beth-gader."

Biblical Context and Significance

Beth-gader is listed among the descendants of Caleb, a prominent figure in the tribe of Judah. Caleb, known for his faithfulness and courage, was one of the two spies who encouraged the Israelites to enter the Promised Land despite the intimidating presence of its inhabitants (Numbers 13-14). The genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 2 highlights the lineage and settlements associated with Caleb, underscoring the importance of his family in the history of Judah.

The mention of Beth-gader in this genealogical context suggests its significance as part of the territorial inheritance of Caleb's descendants. The association with Caleb, a key figure in Israel's conquest and settlement of Canaan, implies that Beth-gader was likely a place of some importance within the tribal allotment of Judah.

Historical and Archaeological Considerations

While the exact location of Beth-gader remains uncertain, it is generally considered to be in the region of Judah, possibly near Bethlehem, given its mention alongside other settlements in the area. The lack of additional biblical references or archaeological evidence makes it difficult to pinpoint its precise location or historical significance beyond the genealogical record.

The name itself, "house of the wall," suggests that Beth-gader may have been a fortified settlement, which would have been typical for towns in the region during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Fortified cities were crucial for defense against external threats and served as administrative and military centers.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the mention of Beth-gader in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles underscores the importance of heritage and lineage in the biblical narrative. The chronicler's emphasis on genealogies serves to connect the post-exilic community of Israel with its ancestral past, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people with a divinely ordained inheritance.

Beth-gader, as part of Caleb's lineage, symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the land of Canaan. It reflects the continuity of God's covenantal faithfulness through successive generations, despite the challenges and disruptions faced by the Israelite community.

Conclusion

Beth-gader, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, is part of the rich tapestry of Israel's history and heritage. Its inclusion in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles highlights the enduring significance of family, land, and divine promise in the narrative of God's people.Beth-Gader

a house for a mouse

BETH-GADER

beth-ga'-der (bethgadher; Baithgedor, or (Codex Vaticanus) Baithgaidon): The name occurs between those of Bethlehem and Kiriath-jearim in 1 Chronicles 2:51. It is possibly identical with Geder of Joshua 12:13.

1013. Beth Gader -- "place of a wall," a place in Judah
Beth Gader. 1012, 1013. Beth Gader. 1014 . "place of a wall," a place in
Judah. Transliteration: Beth Gader Phonetic Spelling: (bayth ...
/hebrew/1013.htm - 6kBethgader (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-GADER. ... It is possibly identical with Geder
of Joshua 12:13. Multi-Version Concordance Bethgader (1 Occurrence). ...
/b/bethgader.htm - 7k

Beth-gader (1 Occurrence)
Beth-gader. Bethgader, Beth-gader. Bethgamul . Int. ... (ASV BBE DBY JPS WBS YLT
NAS RSV). Bethgader, Beth-gader. Bethgamul . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-gader.htm - 7k

Hareph (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAREPH. ha'-ref (chareph, "scornful"): A chief
of Judah, one of the sons of Caleb and father of Beth-gader (1 Chronicles 2:51). ...
/h/hareph.htm - 7k

Geder (1 Occurrence)
... A royal city of the Canaanites taken by Joshua along with Lachish, Eglon, Gezer,
Debir and Hormah (Joshua 12:13 f). It may be the city called "Beth-gader" in 1 ...
/g/geder.htm - 7k

Gader (1 Occurrence)
... Gader (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:51 Salma the father of Bethlehem, Hareph the
father of BethGader. (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/g/gader.htm - 6k

Bethgamul (1 Occurrence)

/b/bethgamul.htm - 7k

Bethelem (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Bethelem (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:51 Salma the father
of Beth-lehem, Hareph the father of Beth-gader. (See RSV). ...
/b/bethelem.htm - 6k

Beth-e'zel (1 Occurrence)
Beth-e'zel. Beth-ezel, Beth-e'zel. Bethgader . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Beth-ezel, Beth-e'zel. Bethgader . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-e'zel.htm - 6k

Salma (3 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:51 Salma the father of Bethlehem, Hareph the father of Beth
Gader. (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/s/salma.htm - 8k

Beth-lehem (49 Occurrences)
... JPS WBS YLT). 1 Chronicles 2:51 Salma the father of Beth-lehem, Hareph the
father of Beth-gader. (ASV BBE JPS WBS YLT). 1 Chronicles ...
/b/beth-lehem.htm - 21k

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