Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Baal-Meon, also referred to as Beon in some biblical texts, is a name that combines "Baal," meaning "lord" or "master," with "Meon," which is often interpreted as "habitation" or "dwelling." Thus, Baal-Meon can be understood as "Lord of the Habitation" or "Dwelling of Baal." The name reflects the Canaanite influence in the region, where Baal was a prominent deity. Biblical References Baal-Meon is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial allotments and conquests. In Numbers 32:3, the Reubenites express their desire to settle in the land, listing Baal-Meon among the cities: "Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon." Here, Beon is an alternate name for Baal-Meon. In Numbers 32:38, the Reubenites rebuild the city, renaming it: "Nebo, Baal-Meon (their names being changed), and Sibmah. They gave other names to the cities they rebuilt." This renaming signifies a departure from the pagan associations of the original names, aligning with the Israelite identity and worship of Yahweh. Baal-Meon is also mentioned in the context of the prophetic literature. In Ezekiel 25:9, the city is included in a prophecy against Moab: "Therefore I will expose the flank of Moab, beginning with its frontier cities—the glory of the land—Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim." This passage highlights the city's significance and its inclusion in the judgment pronounced by the prophet. Historical and Geographical Context Baal-Meon was located east of the Jordan River, in the territory traditionally associated with the tribe of Reuben. The city was part of the region known as Gilead, which was characterized by its fertile land and strategic location. The area was initially inhabited by the Moabites and later became part of the Israelite tribal allotments following the conquest of Canaan. The city's association with Baal worship indicates the syncretistic religious practices that were prevalent in the region before and during the early Israelite settlement. The renaming of the city by the Reubenites reflects the broader biblical theme of the Israelites' struggle to maintain their distinct religious identity amidst surrounding pagan cultures. Archaeological Insights Modern archaeological efforts have identified Baal-Meon with the site of Khirbet Ma'in in present-day Jordan. Excavations have uncovered remains that suggest a long history of occupation, including evidence of fortifications and domestic structures. These findings provide insight into the city's role as a significant settlement in the region. Theological Significance Baal-Meon's mention in the biblical narrative underscores the tension between the worship of Yahweh and the pervasive influence of Canaanite deities like Baal. The city's history serves as a reminder of the Israelites' call to faithfulness and the challenges they faced in maintaining their covenantal relationship with God. The renaming of Baal-Meon by the Reubenites symbolizes a rejection of idolatry and an affirmation of their identity as God's chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 32:3Ataroth, and Dibon, and Jazer, and Nimrah, and Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Shebam, and Nebo, and Beon, Nave's Topical Index Library Appendices Resources What is Ugaritic, and what does it have to do with the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was Elijah afraid of Jezebel? | GotQuestions.org Who was Elijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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