Betolion is a location mentioned in the context of the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Asher in the Old Testament. It is referenced in the Book of Joshua, which details the allotment of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. The specific mention of Betolion is found in Joshua 19:25, where it is listed among the cities within the inheritance of the tribe of Asher.

Biblical Reference:
· Joshua 19:25 : "Their territory included Helkath, Hali, Beten, Achshaph, Allammelech, Amad, and Mishal. On the west the border touched Carmel and Shihor-libnath."

In this passage, Betolion is part of a list of cities that define the boundaries of Asher's inheritance. The exact location of Betolion is not definitively known today, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, which makes it a subject of interest for biblical archaeologists and scholars who seek to identify ancient sites.

Historical and Geographical Context:
The tribe of Asher was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Asher, the eighth son of Jacob and second son of Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The territory of Asher was located in the northern part of the land of Canaan, along the Mediterranean coast. This region was known for its fertile land and olive oil production, which is reflected in Jacob's blessing over Asher: "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide delicacies fit for a king" (Genesis 49:20).

The cities within Asher's territory, including Betolion, were strategically located to benefit from trade routes and the agricultural richness of the area. The proximity to the coast also provided access to maritime trade, contributing to the tribe's prosperity.

Theological Significance:
While Betolion itself is not highlighted for any specific theological events or narratives, its inclusion in the list of Asher's cities underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The division of the land among the tribes of Israel was a significant moment in the history of the Israelites, marking the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settling in the land promised to their forefathers.

The allocation of land to each tribe, including the mention of cities like Betolion, serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering His people to a land flowing with milk and honey. It also reflects the importance of land inheritance in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, as the land was not only a physical possession but also a symbol of divine blessing and provision.

Archaeological Insights:
Due to the lack of specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Betolion, its exact location remains uncertain. However, ongoing archaeological efforts in the region of ancient Asher continue to provide insights into the historical and cultural context of the biblical narrative. Discoveries of ancient settlements, artifacts, and inscriptions contribute to a greater understanding of the life and times of the tribes of Israel during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy.

In summary, Betolion is a city mentioned in the biblical account of the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Asher. While its precise location is unknown, its inclusion in the biblical text highlights the fulfillment of God's promises and the historical significance of the land allotment to the tribes of Israel.BETOLION

be-to'-li-on (Betolio (Codex Alexandrinus), or (Codex Vaticanus) Betolio; the King James Version Betolius, be-to'-li-us): A town the people of which to the number of 52 returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel (1 Esdras 5:21). It corresponds to Bethel in Ezra 2:28.

Betolion
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETOLION. be-to'-li-on (Betolio (Codex
Alexandrinus), or (Codex Vaticanus) Betolio; the King James ...
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Betimes (17 Occurrences)

/b/betimes.htm - 13k

Betomasthaim

/b/betomasthaim.htm - 6k

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