Topical Encyclopedia Bethmaachah, also known as Abel Beth Maacah, is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament. It is situated in the northern part of ancient Israel, near the border with Syria, in the region historically associated with the tribe of Naphtali. The name "Bethmaachah" translates to "house of Maachah," indicating a possible connection to a person or a deity named Maachah.Biblical References: 1. 2 Samuel 20:14-15: Bethmaachah is prominently mentioned in the account of Sheba's rebellion against King David. Sheba, a Benjamite, led a revolt and sought refuge in Abel Beth Maacah. Joab, David's military commander, pursued Sheba to this city. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel Beth Maacah and through the entire region of the Berites, who gathered together and followed him. And Joab’s troops came and besieged Sheba in Abel Beth Maacah. They built a siege ramp against the outer rampart of the city, and as it stood against the rampart, all the troops with Joab were battering the wall to bring it down." 2. 1 Kings 15:20: The city is also mentioned in the context of the conflict between Asa, king of Judah, and Baasha, king of Israel. Asa sought the help of Ben-Hadad, king of Aram, to break Baasha's power. Ben-Hadad attacked several cities, including Abel Beth Maacah. The BSB records: "So Ben-Hadad listened to King Asa and sent the commanders of his armies against the cities of Israel, conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel Beth Maacah, and all Chinnereth, as well as all the land of Naphtali." 3. 2 Kings 15:29: During the reign of Pekah, king of Israel, Tiglath-Pileser III, king of Assyria, invaded Israel and captured several cities, including Bethmaachah. The BSB notes: "In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel Beth Maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee—all the land of Naphtali—and he took the people to Assyria." Historical and Archaeological Insights: Bethmaachah's strategic location made it a significant site throughout Israel's history, often caught in the crossfire of regional conflicts. Archaeological excavations at the site, identified with modern-day Tell Abil el-Qameh, have uncovered evidence of its occupation during the Iron Age, aligning with the biblical narrative. Cultural and Theological Significance: Bethmaachah serves as a reminder of the turbulent history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and its interactions with neighboring powers. The city's repeated mention in military contexts highlights the constant threat of foreign invasion and internal strife faced by the Israelites. Theologically, these accounts underscore themes of divine judgment and the consequences of rebellion against God's anointed leaders, as seen in the account of Sheba's revolt. Bethmaachah's narrative also illustrates the role of diplomacy and alliances in the ancient Near East, as seen in Asa's appeal to Ben-Hadad. This reflects the broader biblical theme of reliance on God versus reliance on human alliances, a recurring issue for the kings of Israel and Judah. Smith's Bible Dictionary Bethmaachah(house of oppression), a place named only in (2 Samuel 20:14,15) In the absence of more information we can only conclude that it is identical with Maachah or Aram-maachah, one of the petty Syrian kingdoms in the north of Palestine. (Comp. (2 Kings 15:29) Thesaurus Bethmaachah (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Bethmaachah (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 20:14 And he went through all the tribes of Israel unto Abel, and ... /b/bethmaachah.htm - 6k Beth-ma'acah (1 Occurrence) Beth-maachah (1 Occurrence) Sheba (36 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Bethmaachah (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 20:14 Subtopics Related Terms Abel-beth-maachah (2 Occurrences) |
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