Beth-rehob is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the context of the territorial descriptions and historical narratives of ancient Israel. The name "Beth-rehob" translates to "house of the street" or "house of the open place," suggesting a settlement of some significance. It is referenced in several passages, indicating its role in the geopolitical landscape of the time.

In the Book of Numbers, Beth-rehob is mentioned as part of the northern boundary of the land that the Israelites were to inherit. Numbers 13:21 states, "So they went up and spied out the land from the Wilderness of Zin as far as Rehob, toward Lebo-hamath." This indicates its location near the northern limits of the Promised Land.

Beth-rehob is also noted in the context of the military campaigns of King David. In 2 Samuel 10:6 , it is recorded, "When the Ammonites realized they had become a stench to David, they hired twenty thousand Aramean foot soldiers from Beth-rehob and Zobah, as well as the king of Maacah with a thousand men, and twelve thousand men from Tob." This passage highlights Beth-rehob as a place from which mercenaries were hired, suggesting its strategic importance and possible alliance with other regional powers.

The exact location of Beth-rehob remains uncertain, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the region of modern-day Lebanon, near the Beqaa Valley. Its mention alongside other significant cities and regions underscores its role in the complex political and military alliances of the ancient Near East.

Zobah

Zobah, also referred to as Aram-Zobah, was an ancient Aramean kingdom mentioned in the Old Testament. It played a significant role in the regional politics during the time of King Saul and King David. The kingdom of Zobah is often associated with the broader Aramean confederation, which included several city-states and territories in what is now modern-day Syria.

The first biblical mention of Zobah occurs in the context of King Saul's military campaigns. In 1 Samuel 14:47 , it is recorded, "After Saul had assumed the kingship over Israel, he fought against all his enemies on every side: against Moab, the Ammonites, Edom, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines. Wherever he turned, he routed them." This passage indicates that Zobah was one of the adversaries of Israel during Saul's reign.

Zobah's prominence is further highlighted during the reign of King David. In 2 Samuel 8:3 , it is noted, "David also defeated Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah, when he went to restore his control along the Euphrates River." This victory was significant in establishing David's dominance over the region and expanding Israel's influence. The defeat of Zobah's king, Hadadezer, is a testament to the military prowess of David and the strategic importance of Zobah in controlling trade routes and regional power dynamics.

The kingdom of Zobah is also mentioned in the context of alliances and conflicts with other regional powers, such as the Ammonites and the Arameans. Its interactions with Israel reflect the complex and often volatile nature of ancient Near Eastern politics.

The precise location of Zobah is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the region of southern Syria, possibly extending into parts of modern-day Lebanon. The historical and biblical accounts of Zobah provide valuable insights into the geopolitical landscape during the united monarchy of Israel.