Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Shearinghouse, referred to in some translations as "Beth-Eked of the Shepherds," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative concerning the downfall of the house of Ahab. The term "Shearinghouse" suggests a place where sheep were sheared, indicating its role in agricultural and pastoral activities. This site is significant in the biblical account for its association with a pivotal moment in the history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Shearinghouse is found in 2 Kings 10:12-14. In this passage, Jehu, who was anointed king of Israel, is on a mission to eradicate the house of Ahab as part of God's judgment against Ahab's idolatry and wickedness. The Berean Standard Bible records: > "Then Jehu set out and went toward Samaria. At Beth-Eked of the Shepherds, he met the relatives of Ahaziah king of Judah and asked, 'Who are you?' They answered, 'We are relatives of Ahaziah, and we have come down to greet the sons of the king and the sons of the queen mother.' 'Take them alive!' Jehu ordered. So they took them alive and slaughtered them at the well of Beth-Eked—forty-two men. He spared none of them." Historical and Theological Significance: Shearinghouse serves as a backdrop for the execution of forty-two relatives of Ahaziah, king of Judah. This event underscores the thoroughness of Jehu's campaign to eliminate the influence of Ahab's lineage, as commanded by God through the prophet Elisha (2 Kings 9:6-10). The location's mention highlights the intersection of divine judgment and human agency, as Jehu fulfills the prophetic word against Ahab's house. Theologically, the incident at Shearinghouse illustrates the seriousness with which God addresses idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness. The eradication of Ahab's descendants is a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from the Lord and leading others into sin. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty in raising and deposing leaders according to His purposes. Cultural and Geographical Insights: While the exact location of Shearinghouse is not definitively known today, its name suggests a rural setting associated with sheep shearing, a common and essential practice in ancient agrarian societies. This activity was typically seasonal and involved gathering flocks for the shearing of wool, a vital resource for clothing and trade. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, sheep shearing was often a time of festivity and community gathering, as seen in other biblical narratives (e.g., 1 Samuel 25:2-8). However, in the case of Shearinghouse, the site becomes a place of judgment rather than celebration, marking a stark contrast to its usual associations. Conclusion: The account of Shearinghouse in 2 Kings 10 serves as a critical moment in the biblical narrative, emphasizing themes of divine justice and the fulfillment of prophecy. It provides insight into the historical and cultural practices of ancient Israel while reinforcing the biblical message of God's righteous judgment against sin. Easton's Bible Dictionary (2 Kings 10:12, 14; marg., "house of shepherds binding sheep." R.V., "the shearing-house of the shepherds;" marg., "house of gathering"), some place between Samaria and Jezreel, where Jehu slew "two and forty men" of the royal family of Judah. The Hebrews word Beth-eked so rendered is supposed by some to be a proper name. Thesaurus Shearinghouse/s/shearinghouse.htm - 6k Shearing (6 Occurrences) Shearing-house (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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