Etymology and Meaning
Beth-Shemesh, meaning "House of the Sun," is a city mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament. Its name likely reflects its historical association with sun worship, a common practice in the ancient Near East. The city is identified with the modern site of Tell er-Rumeileh, located approximately 20 miles west of Jerusalem.

Biblical References and Historical Significance
Beth-Shemesh is first mentioned in the context of the territorial allotments of the tribes of Israel. It was allocated to the tribe of Dan (Joshua 19:41) but later became a Levitical city within the territory of Judah (Joshua 21:16). This dual association highlights its importance as both a religious and administrative center.

One of the most notable events involving Beth-Shemesh is the return of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines. After suffering plagues, the Philistines placed the Ark on a cart drawn by two cows and sent it back to Israel. The cart came to a stop in the field of Joshua of Beth-Shemesh, where the people rejoiced at its return (1 Samuel 6:12-15). However, due to their irreverence in looking into the Ark, the Lord struck down seventy men of Beth-Shemesh (1 Samuel 6:19).

Beth-Shemesh also appears in the narrative of King Amaziah of Judah. After a military victory over Edom, Amaziah challenged Jehoash, king of Israel, to battle. The two kings met at Beth-Shemesh, where Amaziah was defeated, and Jehoash captured him (2 Kings 14:11-13).

Archaeological Insights
Archaeological excavations at Tell er-Rumeileh have uncovered significant remains from various periods, including the Iron Age, which corresponds to the biblical era. Findings include fortifications, domestic structures, and artifacts that provide insight into the city's role as a border town and its interactions with neighboring Philistine territories.

Theological Implications
Beth-Shemesh serves as a poignant reminder of the holiness of God and the consequences of irreverence. The incident with the Ark underscores the importance of approaching God with respect and obedience, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. Additionally, the city's history reflects the broader narrative of Israel's struggle with idolatry and the tension between faithfulness to Yahweh and the allure of surrounding pagan practices.

Cultural and Religious Context
The city's name and its association with sun worship suggest that Beth-Shemesh was a site of religious significance even before its integration into Israelite territory. This background provides context for understanding the syncretistic tendencies that plagued Israel throughout its history, as the Israelites often struggled to maintain pure worship amidst the influence of Canaanite religious practices.

Conclusion
Beth-Shemesh stands as a testament to the complex history of Israel and its interactions with neighboring cultures. Its biblical narrative offers lessons on the sanctity of God's presence and the importance of faithful worship, themes that continue to hold relevance for believers today.Joshua 19:22
And the coast reaches to Tabor, and Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh; and the outgoings of their border were at Jordan: sixteen cities with their villages.
Nave's Topical Index

Repentance and victory
... up the burnt-offering, the Philistines drew near to battle ... had spread disaster in
Philistia and Beth-shemesh, and the ... The name of the city (City of the Woods ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/repentance and victory.htm

The Old Testament and Archeology
... At present (1912) the site of ancient Beth-Shemesh is being excavated ... in Berlin,
at the mound of Zenjirli, once a city in the land Shamal, near the northern ...
/.../the christian view of the old testament/chapter iv the old testament.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... the throne in the last-named city under the ... and Judah with thee?" They met near
Beth-shemesh, on the ... Jehoash entered Jerusalem and dismantled its walls for a ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... at Ophrah, in the residence, and near the sanctuary ... meaning citadel or stronghold
of the city: there was a Millo in every important town, Jerusalem included ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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