Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Baal-Meon, also known as Beth-Baal-Meon, is a name that combines "Baal," a title meaning "lord" or "master," often associated with the Canaanite storm god, and "Meon," which may mean "habitation" or "dwelling." Thus, Baal-Meon can be understood as "the habitation of Baal." Biblical References Baal-Meon is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial allotments and conquests. It is located in the territory east of the Jordan River, within the region historically inhabited by the tribe of Reuben. 1. Numbers 32:38 · In the account of the Reubenites and Gadites requesting land on the east side of the Jordan, Baal-Meon is listed among the cities they rebuilt: "Nebo, Baal-meon (their names being changed), and Sibmah. They gave other names to the cities they rebuilt." 2. Joshua 13:17 · As part of the land allotted to the tribe of Reuben, Baal-Meon is mentioned: "Heshbon, and all its cities on the plain, including Dibon, Bamoth-baal, Beth-baal-meon." 3. 1 Chronicles 5:8 · The genealogical records of the tribe of Reuben also mention Baal-Meon: "and Bela son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who lived in Aroer as far as Nebo and Baal-meon." 4. Ezekiel 25:9 · In a prophecy against Moab, Baal-Meon is included as one of the cities that will be exposed: "therefore I will expose the flank of Moab, beginning with its frontier cities—the glory of the land—Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim." Historical and Archaeological Context Baal-Meon was situated in the region of Moab, which frequently came into conflict with Israel. The city was strategically important due to its location and resources. Archaeological evidence suggests that Baal-Meon was a significant settlement during the Iron Age, with findings that include fortifications and artifacts indicative of a thriving community. Cultural and Religious Significance The inclusion of "Baal" in the name Baal-Meon reflects the syncretistic religious practices of the region, where the worship of Baal was prevalent among the Canaanites and neighboring peoples. This posed a continual challenge to the Israelites, who were commanded to worship Yahweh exclusively. The renaming of cities, as noted in Numbers 32:38, may indicate efforts by the Israelites to assert their identity and religious beliefs over the conquered territories. Theological Implications Baal-Meon serves as a reminder of the Israelites' struggle to maintain their covenantal faithfulness amidst surrounding pagan influences. The city's history illustrates the tension between the call to holiness and the temptation to assimilate into the prevailing cultural and religious practices of the time. The prophetic mention in Ezekiel underscores God's sovereignty and judgment over nations that opposed His people. Conclusion Baal-Meon, as a historical and biblical site, provides insight into the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. Its repeated mention in Scripture highlights its significance in the narrative of Israel's settlement and the ongoing challenge of idolatry. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 13:17Heshbon, and all her cities that are in the plain; Dibon, and Bamothbaal, and Bethbaalmeon, Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 1010. Beth Baal Meon -- "house of Baal of (the) habitation," a ...Beth Baal Meon. 1009, 1010. Beth Baal Meon. 1011 . "house of Baal of (the) habitation," a place East of the Jordan. Transliteration ... /hebrew/1010.htm - 6k Library Perea. Beyond Jordan. Appendices Resources What was Baal Peor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Baal? | GotQuestions.org Why was the worship of Baal and Asherah a constant struggle for the Israelites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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