Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Beth-nim'rah, meaning "house of leopard" or "house of limpid waters," is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name reflects the characteristics of the area, possibly indicating a place known for its wildlife or clear waters. Biblical References: Beth-nim'rah is referenced in several passages within the Old Testament. It is first mentioned in the context of the territorial allotments given to the tribes of Israel. In Numbers 32:3, the Reubenites and Gadites, who had a large number of livestock, requested the lands of Jazer and Gilead, including Beth-nim'rah, as their inheritance: "Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon." This request was granted by Moses, as recorded in Numbers 32:36, where Beth-nim'rah is listed among the fortified cities built by the Gadites: "Beth-nimrah and Beth-haran as fortified cities, and built folds for their flocks." In Joshua 13:27, Beth-nim'rah is again mentioned as part of the territory assigned to the tribe of Gad: "and in the valley: Beth-haram, Beth-nimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon—the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, with the Jordan as its border, as far as the edge of the Sea of Chinnereth on the east side of the Jordan." Geographical Location: Beth-nim'rah was located east of the Jordan River, in the region of Gilead. It was part of the fertile land that was well-suited for grazing, which made it desirable for the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who had significant herds and flocks. The exact location of Beth-nim'rah is not definitively known today, but it is generally associated with the Wadi Nimrin area, near the modern-day Jordanian town of Nimrin. Historical and Cultural Context: The region of Gilead, where Beth-nim'rah was situated, was known for its balm and fertile lands. The allocation of this area to the tribes of Reuben and Gad was significant due to its agricultural potential and strategic location. The fortified cities, including Beth-nim'rah, served as protection against potential invasions and as centers for the community's economic activities. Theological Significance: Beth-nim'rah's inclusion in the biblical narrative highlights the importance of land inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribes of Israel. The allocation of land east of the Jordan to the tribes of Reuben and Gad demonstrates God's provision and the practical considerations of the Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land. The fortified cities, such as Beth-nim'rah, underscore the need for security and stability in the newly acquired territories. Archaeological Insights: While definitive archaeological evidence for Beth-nim'rah remains elusive, the general area of Wadi Nimrin has yielded findings that provide insights into the ancient settlement patterns and lifestyle of the inhabitants. These findings contribute to our understanding of the historical context in which the biblical narratives were set. Beth-nim'rah serves as a testament to the historical and theological themes present in the Old Testament, illustrating the interplay between divine promise, human agency, and the practical realities of life in ancient Israel. Concordance Beth-nim'rah (2 Occurrences)Numbers 32:36 Joshua 13:27 Thesaurus Beth-nim'rah (2 Occurrences)Beth-nim'rah. Beth-nimrah, Beth-nim'rah. Bethpalet . Multi-Version Concordance Beth-nim'rah (2 Occurrences). Numbers 32:36 and Beth ... /b/beth-nim'rah.htm - 7k Beth-nimrah (2 Occurrences) Bethpalet (1 Occurrence) 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 |
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