Topical Encyclopedia The Be-er'othites were inhabitants of the ancient city of Beeroth, one of the four cities of the Hivites that made a covenant of peace with Joshua and the Israelites during their conquest of Canaan. Beeroth is mentioned in the context of the Gibeonite deception, where the Gibeonites, including the Be-er'othites, tricked Joshua into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land (Joshua 9:3-15). The city of Beeroth is listed among the cities given to the tribe of Benjamin (Joshua 18:25).Historical Context Beeroth was one of the cities of the Gibeonite confederation, which also included Gibeon, Chephirah, and Kiriath Jearim. The Gibeonites, fearing the Israelites, resorted to deception to secure a treaty, which Joshua honored despite the deceit, due to the oath made before the LORD (Joshua 9:18-20). As a result, the Gibeonites, including the Be-er'othites, were made woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD (Joshua 9:21-27). Biblical References The Be-er'othites are mentioned in several key passages in the Old Testament. In 2 Samuel 4:2-3, Beeroth is noted as part of the territory of Benjamin, and it is mentioned that the Be-er'othites fled to Gittaim and have lived there as foreigners to this day. This passage highlights the displacement of the Be-er'othites during the tumultuous period of King Saul's reign and the subsequent power struggles. In the narrative of King David, two Be-er'othites, Rechab and Baanah, are noted for their role in the assassination of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as recorded in 2 Samuel 4:5-12. Their actions were driven by political motives, seeking favor with David, but they were ultimately executed for their treachery, as David upheld justice and righteousness in his kingdom. Cultural and Theological Significance The account of the Be-er'othites and the Gibeonites serves as a reminder of the complexities of covenant relationships in the biblical narrative. The Israelites' commitment to their oath, despite the Gibeonites' deception, underscores the importance of faithfulness and integrity in agreements made before God. The Be-er'othites' integration into Israelite society as servants at the altar also reflects the theme of God's sovereignty in using even deceptive circumstances to fulfill His purposes. The account of Rechab and Baanah further illustrates the moral and ethical standards upheld by David, who refused to condone murder and treachery, even against his enemies. This incident highlights the biblical principle that justice and righteousness are paramount in leadership and governance. Geographical Location Beeroth is traditionally identified with the modern village of el-Bireh, located approximately 10 miles north of Jerusalem. Its strategic location along ancient trade routes contributed to its historical significance and interactions with surrounding peoples. Conclusion The Be-er'othites, as part of the Gibeonite confederation, played a notable role in the early history of Israel's settlement in Canaan. Their account is interwoven with themes of covenant faithfulness, justice, and the unfolding of God's plan for His people. Concordance Be-er'othites (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 4:3 Thesaurus Be-er'othites (1 Occurrence)Be-er'othites. Beerothites, Be-er'othites. Beersheba . Multi-Version Concordance Be-er'othites (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 4:3 and ... /b/be-er'othites.htm - 6k Beersheba (33 Occurrences) Beerothites (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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