Etymology and Meaning: The name "Be-er'oth" is derived from the Hebrew word "בְּאֵרוֹת" (Be'erot), meaning "wells." This name reflects the presence of water sources, which were vital for the settlement and survival of ancient communities in the arid regions of the Near East.

Biblical References: Be-er'oth is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament. It is primarily noted as one of the cities of the Gibeonites, a group of Hivites who made a treaty with Joshua and the Israelites. In Joshua 9:17 , it is recorded: "So the Israelites set out and on the third day came to their cities—Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim."

Historical and Geographical Context: Be-er'oth was located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin, as described in Joshua 18:25 : "Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth." The city was part of a cluster of towns that played a significant role in the history of Israel's settlement in Canaan. Its association with the Gibeonites, who cleverly secured a peace treaty with Israel, highlights its strategic importance.

Significance in Israelite History: The Gibeonite deception, which included Be-er'oth, is a notable event in Israel's conquest of Canaan. The Gibeonites, fearing the advancing Israelites, resorted to a ruse to secure their safety, as detailed in Joshua 9. Despite the deceit, the Israelites honored their oath to protect the Gibeonites, which led to Be-er'oth and its sister cities becoming part of Israel's domain.

Later References and Developments: Be-er'oth is mentioned in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile. In Ezra 2:25 and Nehemiah 7:29 , the inhabitants of Be-er'oth are listed among those who returned to Judah: "the men of Gibeon, 95." This indicates the continued existence and significance of the city during the post-exilic period.

Cultural and Theological Insights: The account of Be-er'oth and the Gibeonites underscores themes of covenant, deception, and divine providence. The Israelites' commitment to their oath, despite the Gibeonites' deceit, reflects the importance of faithfulness and integrity in biblical ethics. Additionally, the inclusion of the Gibeonites within Israel's community illustrates the broader theme of God's grace extending beyond ethnic and national boundaries.

Archaeological Considerations: While the exact location of ancient Be-er'oth is debated, it is generally associated with the modern site of el-Bireh, near Ramallah in the West Bank. Archaeological findings in the region provide insights into the settlement patterns and material culture of the inhabitants during the biblical period.

Conclusion: Be-er'oth, as a city of wells, played a significant role in the narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement of Canaan. Its history is intertwined with themes of covenant faithfulness and the integration of diverse peoples into the community of Israel.Be-er'oth (8 Occurrences)

Deuteronomy 10:6
(The children of Israel traveled from Beeroth Bene Jaakan to Moserah. There Aaron died, and there he was buried; and Eleazar his son ministered in the priest's office in his place.
(See RSV)

Joshua 9:17
The children of Israel traveled and came to their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath Jearim.
(See RSV)

Joshua 18:25
Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth,
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 4:2
Ishbosheth, Saul's son, had two men who were captains of bands: the name of the one was Baanah, and the name of the other Rechab, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, of the children of Benjamin (for Beeroth also is reckoned to Benjamin:
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 23:37
Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, armor bearers to Joab the son of Zeruiah,
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 11:39
Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Berothite, the armor bearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah,
(See RSV)

Ezra 2:25
The children of Kiriath Arim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty-three.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:29
The men of Kiriath Jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty-three.
(See RSV)

Be-er'oth (8 Occurrences)
Be-er'oth. Beeroth, Be-er'oth. Beeroth-benejaakan . Multi-Version Concordance
Be-er'oth (8 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 10:6 (The children ...
/b/be-er'oth.htm - 8k

Beeroth (7 Occurrences)
... be-e'-roth, be'-er-oth (be'eroth; Beroth): One of the cities of the Canaanites whose
inhabitants succeeded in deceiving Israel, and in making a covenant with ...
/b/beeroth.htm - 11k

Beerothite (4 Occurrences)
... BEEROTHITE; BEROTHITE. be-e'-roth-it, be'-er-oth-it (be'erothi; 2 Samuel 4:5, 9
2 Samuel 23:37; shortened form, 1 Chronicles 11:39). See BEEROTH. ...
/b/beerothite.htm - 8k

Berothite (1 Occurrence)
... BEEROTHITE; BEROTHITE. be-e'-roth-it, be'-er-oth-it (be'erothi; 2 Samuel 4:5, 9
2 Samuel 23:37; shortened form, 1 Chronicles 11:39). See BEEROTH. BEROTHITE. ...
/b/berothite.htm - 7k

Beeroth-benejaakan (1 Occurrence)
Beeroth-benejaakan. Be-er'oth, Beeroth-benejaakan. Beeroth-bene-jaakan . ... (See
JPS). Be-er'oth, Beeroth-benejaakan. Beeroth-bene-jaakan . Reference Bible
/b/beeroth-benejaakan.htm - 6k

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