Etymology and Name Variations:
Beth-Baal-Meon, also referred to as Beth-Meon, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Beth-Baal-Meon" translates to "house of Baal of Meon," indicating a possible association with the worship of the Canaanite deity Baal. The shorter form, "Beth-Meon," is also used in some biblical texts.

Biblical References:
Beth-Baal-Meon is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament. It is primarily noted in the context of territorial descriptions and conquests.

1. Numbers 32:38 : "Nebo, Baal-meon (their names being changed), and Sibmah. They gave other names to the cities they rebuilt." This verse describes the allocation of land to the tribe of Reuben, who rebuilt and renamed several cities, including Baal-meon.

2. Joshua 13:17 : "Heshbon, and all its cities on the plain, including Dibon, Bamoth-baal, Beth-baal-meon." This passage lists Beth-Baal-Meon as part of the territory assigned to the tribe of Reuben, situated on the plains of Moab.

3. 1 Chronicles 5:8 : "and Bela son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel. They settled in Aroer as far as Nebo and Baal-meon." This genealogical record mentions Baal-meon as part of the settlement area of the descendants of Reuben.

4. Jeremiah 48:23 : "upon Kiriathaim, Beth-gamul, Beth-meon." In this prophetic oracle against Moab, Beth-Meon is listed among the cities destined for judgment.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Beth-Baal-Meon was located in the region east of the Jordan River, within the territory traditionally associated with the tribe of Reuben. This area was part of the larger region of Moab, which frequently interacted with the Israelites throughout biblical history. The city's mention alongside other Moabite cities in Jeremiah's prophecy suggests its significance within the Moabite kingdom.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of Beth-Baal-Meon is not definitively identified, it is generally associated with the archaeological site of Khirbet Ma'in in modern-day Jordan. Excavations in the region have uncovered remains that provide insights into the settlement patterns and cultural influences of the area, reflecting a blend of Israelite and Moabite elements.

Theological Significance:
Beth-Baal-Meon's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. The city's association with Baal worship highlights the religious challenges faced by the Israelites as they settled in Canaan, where syncretism and idolatry were persistent issues. The renaming of cities by the Reubenites, as noted in Numbers 32:38, reflects an effort to assert Israelite identity and religious purity in a land marked by pagan influences.

Cultural and Religious Context:
The presence of Baal in the city's name indicates the pervasive influence of Canaanite religion in the region. Baal was a prominent deity in the ancient Near East, often associated with fertility and weather. The Israelites' struggle against Baal worship is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, emphasizing the call to exclusive worship of Yahweh.

Beth-Baal-Meon serves as a testament to the historical and spiritual challenges faced by the Israelites as they navigated their covenant relationship with God amidst a landscape filled with competing religious ideologies.Jeremiah 48:23
And on Kiriathaim, and on Bethgamul, and on Bethmeon,
Nave's Topical Index

Why did Jehu destroy the Baal worship in Israel but not the worship of golden calves? | GotQuestions.org

Why is Gideon referred to as Jerubbaal? | GotQuestions.org

What is Ugaritic, and what does it have to do with the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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