Etymology and Meaning: The name "Baalathbeer" is derived from two Hebrew words: "Baalath," meaning "mistress" or "lady," and "beer," meaning "well" or "spring." Thus, Baalathbeer can be understood as "Lady of the Well" or "Mistress of the Spring." This name reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of attributing divine or semi-divine status to natural features such as wells and springs, which were vital for survival in arid regions.

Biblical References: Baalathbeer is mentioned in the Old Testament in the context of the tribal allotments of the Promised Land. Specifically, it is found in Joshua 19:8, which details the inheritance of the tribe of Simeon. The Berean Standard Bible states: "and all the villages surrounding these cities as far as Baalath-beer (Ramah of the Negev). This was the inheritance of the tribe of Simeon, according to their clans."

Geographical Context: Baalathbeer is located in the Negev region, a semi-arid desert area in the southern part of ancient Israel. The Negev was known for its challenging environment, making wells and springs particularly significant for the sustenance of life. The reference to "Ramah of the Negev" suggests that Baalathbeer was situated near a notable high place or hill, which was common for settlements in the region to provide strategic advantage and access to water sources.

Historical and Cultural Significance: The mention of Baalathbeer in the context of the Simeonite inheritance highlights the importance of water resources in the tribal allotments. The Negev, while harsh, was a land of potential for those who could harness its scarce resources. The presence of a well or spring at Baalathbeer would have made it a valuable location for settlement and agriculture.

In the broader cultural and religious landscape of ancient Israel, the name Baalathbeer may also reflect the syncretistic tendencies of the Israelites, who sometimes adopted Canaanite religious practices. The term "Baalath" is related to "Baal," a Canaanite deity, indicating that the site may have had religious significance or been associated with local deities before its integration into Israelite territory.

Tribal and Theological Implications: The allocation of Baalathbeer to the tribe of Simeon is part of the broader narrative of the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Simeon's inheritance, as described in Joshua 19, was situated within the larger territory of Judah, reflecting the tribe's eventual absorption into Judah due to its smaller size and the challenges of maintaining distinct tribal boundaries in the Negev.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Baalathbeer in the biblical record underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants the land of Canaan. Each location, including Baalathbeer, serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in providing for His people, even in the most challenging environments.Baalah of the well, (Joshua 19:8, probably the same as Baal, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:33, a city of Simeon. BAALATH-BEER

ba'-a-lath-be'-er ba`alath be'er "lady (mistress) of the well"; (Joshua 19:8 (in 1 Chronicles 4:33, Baal)): In Jos this place is designated "Ramah of the South," i.e. of the Negeb, while in 1 Samuel 30:27 it is described as Ramoth of the Negeb. It must have been a prominent hill (ramah = "height") in the far south of the Negeb and near a well be'er. The site is unknown though Conder suggests that the shrine Kubbet el Baul may retain the old name.

Baalathbeer (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Baalathbeer (1 Occurrence). Joshua 19:8 And all the villages
that were round about these cities to Baalathbeer, Ramath of the south. ...
/b/baalathbeer.htm - 7k

Ramath (10 Occurrences)
... YLT NAS NIV). Joshua 19:8 And all the villages that were round about these
cities to Baalathbeer, Ramath of the south. This is the ...
/r/ramath.htm - 10k

Ba'alath (2 Occurrences)
Ba'alath. Baalath, Ba'alath. Baalathbeer . ... 1 Kings 9:18 and Baalath, and Tamar
in the wilderness, in the land, (See RSV). Baalath, Ba'alath. Baalathbeer...
/b/ba'alath.htm - 6k

Baalath-beer (2 Occurrences)
Baalath-beer. Baalathbeer, Baalath-beer. Ba'alath-beer . Easton's Bible Dictionary ...
(BBE). Baalathbeer, Baalath-beer. Ba'alath-beer . Reference Bible.
/b/baalath-beer.htm - 8k

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