Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Beth-hacche'rem, meaning "house of the vineyard" or "house of the vineyard of the vineyard," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name suggests a place associated with vineyards, indicating its possible agricultural significance in ancient times. Biblical References: Beth-hacche'rem is mentioned in the Bible in the context of the tribe of Judah. It appears in the book of Jeremiah and Nehemiah, highlighting its strategic and administrative importance. 1. Jeremiah 6:1 : "Run for cover, O sons of Benjamin, flee from Jerusalem! Sound the ram’s horn in Tekoa; raise a signal over Beth-hacche'rem, for disaster looms from the north, even great destruction." In this passage, Beth-hacche'rem is identified as a location where a signal is raised, indicating its role as a lookout or warning point. The context suggests that it was a place of strategic military importance, possibly due to its elevation or location, which allowed for the observation of approaching threats. 2. Nehemiah 3:14 : "The Dung Gate was repaired by Malchijah son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-hacche'rem. He rebuilt it and installed its doors, bolts, and bars." Here, Beth-hacche'rem is mentioned as a district under the jurisdiction of Malchijah, who was responsible for repairing part of the wall of Jerusalem. This reference indicates that Beth-hacche'rem was not only a geographical location but also an administrative district with its own governance. Historical and Geographical Context: Beth-hacche'rem is traditionally identified with a site near modern-day Bethlehem, although its exact location remains uncertain. Its mention alongside Tekoa and its role in signaling suggest it was situated on a hill or elevated area, providing a vantage point for observing the surrounding region. Cultural and Theological Significance: The references to Beth-hacche'rem in the Bible highlight its role in the defense and administration of the region. As a place where signals were raised, it underscores the importance of communication and preparedness in the face of impending danger. The mention in Nehemiah also reflects the post-exilic efforts to restore and fortify Jerusalem, with Beth-hacche'rem playing a part in the broader community's efforts to rebuild and secure their city. Beth-hacche'rem's association with vineyards may also carry symbolic significance, as vineyards are often used in the Bible to represent prosperity, blessing, and the people of Israel. The name itself evokes imagery of fruitfulness and divine provision, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. Concordance Beth-hacche'rem (2 Occurrences)Nehemiah 3:14 Jeremiah 6:1 Thesaurus Beth-hacche'rem (2 Occurrences)Beth-hacche'rem. Beth-haccherem, Beth-hacche'rem. Bethhaggan . Multi-Version Concordance Beth-hacche'rem (2 Occurrences). Nehemiah ... /b/beth-hacche'rem.htm - 7k Beth-haccherem (2 Occurrences) Bethhaggan Resources Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Naphtali? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |