Topical Encyclopedia Introduction and Etymology:Beer-Sheba, often spelled Beersheba, is a significant biblical city located in the southern part of ancient Palestine. The name "Beer-Sheba" is traditionally understood to mean "Well of the Oath" or "Well of Seven," derived from the Hebrew words "be'er" (well) and "sheba" (oath or seven). This etymology is linked to the biblical narratives involving the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac, who both had significant interactions at this location. Biblical Significance: Beer-Sheba holds a prominent place in biblical history, particularly in the narratives of the patriarchs. It is first mentioned in Genesis 21:31, where Abraham and Abimelech, the king of Gerar, make a covenant. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So that place was called Beersheba, because it was there that the two of them swore an oath." This event underscores the city's role as a site of peace and agreement. Later, in Genesis 26:23-33, Isaac, Abraham's son, also establishes his presence in Beer-Sheba. After a series of disputes over wells with the Philistines, Isaac moves to Beer-Sheba, where the LORD appears to him, reaffirming the covenant made with his father Abraham. Isaac builds an altar there, and his servants dig a well, further solidifying Beer-Sheba's importance as a place of divine encounter and sustenance. Geographical and Tribal Context: Beer-Sheba is located at the southern boundary of the land allotted to the tribe of Judah, as described in Joshua 15:28. It serves as a geographical marker, often mentioned in the phrase "from Dan to Beersheba," which denotes the entire span of the Israelite territory from north to south (Judges 20:1, 1 Samuel 3:20). This expression highlights Beer-Sheba's role as a boundary city and a point of reference for the extent of the Promised Land. Historical and Cultural Context: Throughout the biblical narrative, Beer-Sheba is depicted as a center of patriarchal activity and a hub for worship and covenant-making. It is also associated with the prophet Elijah, who, in 1 Kings 19:3, flees to Beer-Sheba to escape the wrath of Queen Jezebel. This journey marks a significant moment in Elijah's prophetic ministry, as he encounters God in a profound way shortly thereafter. In the time of the divided kingdom, Beer-Sheba remained a significant location. The prophet Amos mentions it in Amos 5:5 and 8:14, warning against the idolatrous practices that had infiltrated the area. This indicates that Beer-Sheba was not only a historical and geographical landmark but also a spiritual battleground. Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological excavations at Tel Be'er Sheva have uncovered significant findings that corroborate the biblical account of Beer-Sheba. These include ancient wells, fortifications, and a four-room gate complex, which provide insight into the city's structure and its role as a fortified settlement. The discovery of these artifacts aligns with the biblical portrayal of Beer-Sheba as a place of strategic and spiritual importance. Conclusion: Beer-Sheba stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the patriarchs and the unfolding of God's covenantal promises. Its historical, geographical, and spiritual significance is woven throughout the biblical narrative, marking it as a pivotal location in the history of Israel. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 15:20,28This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 24:7 Library The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Resources What are some of the riddles in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Solomon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine in the Inheritance of Judah Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: Afterward Assigned to Simeon Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: Became a Seat of Idolatrous Worship Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: Jacob Went out From, Toward Haran Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: Named by Abraham, Who Lived There Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: Sacrifices offered At, by Jacob Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: The Place where Isaac Lived Beer-Sheba: The Most Southern City of Palestine: Two Sons of Samuel Were Judges At Beer-Sheba: The Well of, Belonged to Abraham and Isaac Beer-Sheba: Wilderness of, Hagar Miraculously Sees a Well In Beer-Sheba: Wilderness of, Hagar Miraculously Sees a Well in an Angel Fed Elijah In Related Terms Daughter-towns (17 Occurrences) |
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