Biblical References:
Beesh-Terah is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 21:27, it is listed among the cities given to the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel. The Berean Standard Bible states: "To the Gershonites, one of the clans of the Levites, they gave from the half-tribe of Manasseh: Golan in Bashan, a city of refuge for the manslayer, and Beesh-Terah, along with their pasturelands—two cities."

Historical Context:
Beesh-Terah was one of the cities allocated to the Levites, who were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were given specific cities and surrounding pasturelands throughout the territories of the other tribes. This arrangement allowed the Levites to perform their priestly functions and teach the Law of God across the nation.

Geographical Location:
Beesh-Terah was located in the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh, east of the Jordan River. This region, known as Bashan, was known for its fertile lands and was part of the inheritance given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The exact location of Beesh-Terah is not definitively known today, but it was situated in a region that played a significant role in the history of Israel.

Levitical Significance:
As a Levitical city, Beesh-Terah served as a center for religious instruction and worship. The Levites residing there were responsible for maintaining the spiritual well-being of the community, teaching the Law, and performing various religious rites. The allocation of cities like Beesh-Terah to the Levites ensured that the spiritual needs of the Israelites were met throughout the land.

Cultural and Theological Insights:
The distribution of Levitical cities, including Beesh-Terah, reflects the importance of the priestly role in ancient Israelite society. The Levites were integral to the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as mediators and teachers of the Law. The presence of Levitical cities across the tribal territories underscores the decentralized nature of worship and religious instruction in Israel, allowing for a widespread dissemination of God's commandments and statutes.

Conclusion:
Beesh-Terah, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, represents a vital aspect of Israel's religious and social structure. As a Levitical city, it highlights the provision made for the spiritual leadership and instruction of the nation, ensuring that the knowledge and worship of God were accessible to all the tribes of Israel.Joshua 21:27
And to the children of Gershon, of the families of the Levites, out of the other half tribe of Manasseh they gave Golan in Bashan with her suburbs, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Beeshterah with her suburbs; two cities.
Nave's Topical Index

1203. Beeshterah -- perhaps "house of Ashtoreth," a Levitical city ...
... perhaps "house of Ashtoreth," a Levitical city in Manasseh. Transliteration: Beeshterah
Phonetic Spelling: (beh-esh-ter-aw') Short Definition: Be-eshterah. ...
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