Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology:Bamah, derived from the Hebrew word "בָּמָה" (bamah), refers to a "high place" often associated with worship in ancient Israel. These elevated sites were typically used for religious rituals and sacrifices. The term "bamah" is used in various contexts throughout the Old Testament, often indicating locations where both legitimate and illegitimate worship occurred. Biblical References: The concept of high places, or bamot (plural of bamah), is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. These sites were significant in the religious practices of the Israelites and their neighbors. High places were often situated on hills or raised platforms and were used for worshiping Yahweh as well as foreign deities. 1. Ezekiel 20:29 : "So I asked them: What is this high place to which you go? (And to this day it is called Bamah.)" This verse highlights the continued use and recognition of high places in Israel, even during the time of the prophet Ezekiel. The rhetorical question posed by God through Ezekiel underscores the problematic nature of these sites, which had become associated with idolatrous practices. 2. 1 Kings 3:2-3 : "The people, however, were still sacrificing on the high places, because a house had not yet been built for the Name of the LORD. Solomon loved the LORD by walking in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places." This passage illustrates the transitional period in Israelite worship before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. While Solomon is noted for his devotion to God, his use of high places for worship reflects the tension between traditional practices and the centralization of worship in Jerusalem. 3. 2 Kings 23:13 : "The king also desecrated the high places east of Jerusalem, to the south of the Mount of Corruption, which Solomon king of Israel had built for Ashtoreth the abomination of the Sidonians, for Chemosh the abomination of Moab, and for Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites." This verse recounts King Josiah's reforms, which included the destruction of high places associated with idolatry. Josiah's actions were part of a broader effort to purify the worship of Yahweh and eliminate foreign influences. Historical and Cultural Context: High places were common in the ancient Near East and served as sites for various religious activities, including sacrifices, offerings, and festivals. In Israel, high places were initially used for the worship of Yahweh, especially before the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem. However, over time, these sites became syncretized with Canaanite and other pagan religious practices, leading to their condemnation by the prophets and reforming kings. Theological Significance: The use of high places in Israel's history reflects the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to Yahweh and the temptation to adopt the religious customs of surrounding nations. The prophets and reformers consistently called the people back to exclusive worship of Yahweh, emphasizing the importance of centralized worship in Jerusalem as a means of maintaining theological purity and unity among the Israelites. Archaeological Insights: Archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous high places throughout Israel and the surrounding regions. These sites often include altars, standing stones, and other cultic objects, providing valuable insights into the religious practices of ancient peoples. The physical remains of high places corroborate the biblical accounts and highlight the widespread nature of this form of worship. Conclusion: The concept of Bamah, or high places, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their covenantal relationship with God amidst external influences. The biblical narrative consistently calls for the rejection of idolatry and the exclusive worship of Yahweh, a theme that resonates throughout the history of Israel and the teachings of the prophets. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 20:29Then I said to them, What is the high place whereunto you go? And the name whereof is called Bamah to this day. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 1116. bamah -- a high place... 1115, 1116. bamah. 1117 . a high place. Transliteration: bamah Phonetic Spelling: (bam-maw') Short Definition: places. Word Origin ... /hebrew/1116.htm - 6k 1117. Bamah -- a high place (for idols) in Isr. 1120. Bamoth -- "high place," a place in Moab 173. Oholibamah -- "tent of the high place," wife of Esau, also an ... 1181. baale bamoth -- lords of (the) high places Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Death and the Raising of Lazarus - the Question of Miracles ... Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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