Topical Encyclopedia Bethshittah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. The name "Bethshittah" translates to "house of the acacia" in Hebrew, indicating a place associated with acacia trees, which were common in the region. This site is part of the narrative concerning Gideon, one of the judges of Israel, who led a divinely appointed mission to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites.Biblical Reference: Bethshittah is mentioned in Judges 7:22. The context of this passage is the miraculous victory of Gideon over the Midianite army. The Lord instructed Gideon to reduce his army to just 300 men, ensuring that the victory would be attributed to divine intervention rather than human strength. The text states: "When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the LORD set the swords of every man against his companion throughout the camp, and the army fled to Bethshittah toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel-meholah near Tabbath" (Judges 7:22). Historical and Geographical Context: Bethshittah is believed to have been located in the Jezreel Valley, a fertile region in northern Israel. The exact location of Bethshittah is not definitively known today, but it is thought to be near the modern-day site of Shatta, based on historical and geographical studies. The Jezreel Valley was a strategic area due to its fertile land and its position as a crossroads for various trade routes. Theological Significance: The mention of Bethshittah in the narrative of Gideon's victory underscores the theme of divine deliverance and the power of God to save His people against overwhelming odds. The flight of the Midianites to Bethshittah signifies the turning point in the battle, where confusion and fear, instigated by the Lord, led to their defeat. This event is a testament to the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to Israel and His ability to use unlikely means and people to achieve His purposes. Cultural and Symbolic Aspects: The reference to acacia trees in the name "Bethshittah" may hold symbolic significance. Acacia wood was used in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as described in the Book of Exodus. This connection could symbolize purity, strength, and the presence of God, themes that resonate with the account of Gideon's divinely orchestrated victory. In summary, Bethshittah serves as a geographical marker in the biblical account of Gideon's triumph over the Midianites, highlighting the miraculous nature of the victory and the faithfulness of God to His covenant people. Smith's Bible Dictionary Bethshittah(home of the acacia), one of the spots to which the flight of the host of the Midianites extended after their discomfiture by Gideon. (Judges 7:22) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-SHITTAHbeth-shit'-a (beth ha-shiTTah, "house of the acacia"): A place on the route followed by the Midianites in their flight before Gideon (Judges 7:22). It is probably identical with the modern ShuTTa, a village in the Vale of Jezreel, about 6 miles Northwest of Beisan. Thesaurus Bethshittah (1 Occurrence)... of Beisan. Multi-Version Concordance Bethshittah (1 Occurrence). Judges 7:22 And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the LORD ... /b/bethshittah.htm - 7k Zererath (1 Occurrence) Zarethan (4 Occurrences) Beth-shemite (2 Occurrences) Beth-shittah (1 Occurrence) Abelmeholah (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Bethshittah (1 Occurrence)Judges 7:22 Subtopics Related Terms |
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