Etymology and Meaning: The name "Beth Baal-meon" can be translated as "House of Baal of the habitation" or "House of Baal of the dwelling." The name reflects the Canaanite influence in the region, as "Baal" was a common deity worshiped by the Canaanites.

Biblical References: Beth Baal-meon is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament. It is first noted in the Book of Numbers as part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben. Numbers 32:38 states, "Nebo, Baal Meon (their names being changed), and Sibmah. They gave other names to the cities they built." This indicates that the Israelites renamed the city, likely to remove the association with the Canaanite god Baal.

In Joshua 13:17, Beth Baal-meon is listed among the cities in the plains of Moab: "Heshbon, and all its cities on the plain: Dibon, Bamoth-baal, Beth-baal-meon." This passage situates the city within the broader context of the Reubenite inheritance east of the Jordan River.

The city is also mentioned in the prophetic literature. In Jeremiah 48:23, it is included in a list of Moabite cities that would face judgment: "against Kiriathaim, Beth-gamul, Beth-meon." This indicates that by the time of Jeremiah, Beth Baal-meon was under Moabite control.

Historical and Geographical Context: Beth Baal-meon was located in the region historically known as Moab, east of the Dead Sea. The area was known for its fertile land and strategic location. The city was part of the territory initially conquered by the Israelites under Moses and later settled by the tribe of Reuben. However, over time, it fell under Moabite control, as evidenced by the prophetic denunciations against Moab.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the site of Beth Baal-meon may correspond to the modern-day location of Ma'in in Jordan. Excavations in the area have uncovered remains from various periods, indicating a long history of settlement.

Theological Significance: The mention of Beth Baal-meon in the context of Israelite conquest and settlement highlights the ongoing struggle between the worship of Yahweh and the pagan practices of the surrounding nations. The renaming of the city by the Israelites reflects their efforts to establish a distinct identity and religious purity in the Promised Land.

The prophetic references to Beth Baal-meon in Jeremiah underscore the theme of divine judgment against nations and cities that opposed Israel or led them into idolatry. The city's association with Moab, a frequent adversary of Israel, serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from the covenant with God.

Cultural and Religious Influence: As a city with a name invoking Baal, Beth Baal-meon represents the cultural and religious syncretism that the Israelites encountered in Canaan. The presence of such cities posed a constant temptation for the Israelites to adopt foreign religious practices, which the biblical narrative consistently warns against.

In summary, Beth Baal-meon serves as a historical and theological touchpoint in the biblical narrative, illustrating the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their covenantal identity amidst a landscape of competing religious influences.