Bethbiri is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the tribal allotments of the descendants of Simeon. The name "Bethbiri" is understood to mean "house of my creation" or "house of my making," reflecting the Hebrew roots of the word. This site is referenced in the context of the genealogical records and territorial assignments of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical Reference:

Bethbiri is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:31, which details the settlements of the tribe of Simeon. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads: "Beth-marcaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-biri, and Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David."

Historical and Geographical Context:

The tribe of Simeon was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. The Simeonites initially received their inheritance within the territory of Judah, as described in Joshua 19:1-9. This allocation was due to the fact that the portion of land given to Judah was too large for them alone. Bethbiri, therefore, was part of this inheritance, situated in the southern part of the land of Canaan.

The specific location of Bethbiri is not definitively known today, as it is not one of the more prominent or frequently mentioned sites in biblical records. However, its inclusion in the genealogical and territorial lists underscores its role as a part of the settled regions during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy in Israel.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

The mention of Bethbiri, along with other towns, highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land of Canaan. Each town and settlement, including Bethbiri, represents the tangible realization of the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel was a significant aspect of their identity and relationship with God, as it was a sign of divine provision and blessing.

Furthermore, the reference to these towns "until the reign of David" suggests a period of stability and continuity in the region. King David's reign marked a unification and expansion of the Israelite kingdom, and the mention of these towns in this context may indicate their continued importance or transformation during his rule.

Archaeological Insights:

While there is limited archaeological evidence directly associated with Bethbiri, the broader region of Simeon's inheritance has been the subject of various archaeological studies. These studies aim to uncover more about the settlement patterns, culture, and daily life of the Israelites during the biblical period. Discoveries in the region contribute to a greater understanding of the historical context in which Bethbiri and similar towns existed.

In summary, Bethbiri serves as a testament to the historical and theological narrative of the Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land. Its mention in the biblical text, though brief, is part of the larger tapestry of God's unfolding plan for His people.BETH-BIRI

beth-bir'-i (the King James Version Beth-birei, beth-bir'-e-i) beth bir'i; oikos Braoumseoreim; 1 Chronicles 4:31 (called in Joshua 19:6, Beth-lebaoth, "abode of lions"): A site belonging to Simeon in the Negeb-unidentified.

Bethbiri

/b/bethbiri.htm - 6k

Beth-biri (1 Occurrence)
Beth-biri. Bethbiri, Beth-biri. Bethcar . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ...
(ASV BBE DBY JPS NAS RSV). Bethbiri, Beth-biri. Bethcar . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-biri.htm - 7k

Beth-birei (1 Occurrence)
Beth-birei. Bethbirei, Beth-birei. Bethbiri . Multi-Version Concordance ... (WBS
YLT). Bethbirei, Beth-birei. Bethbiri . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-birei.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus