Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Beer-elim, translated as "Well of Elim" or "Well of the Mighty Ones," is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name itself suggests a place associated with water, specifically a well, and possibly indicates a site of significance or strength, as "Elim" can be interpreted as "mighty ones" or "gods." Biblical Reference Beer-elim is mentioned in the Book of Isaiah, specifically in Isaiah 15:8. The verse states: "For the cry has gone around the borders of Moab, its wailing to Eglaim, and its wailing to Beer-elim." This passage is part of a prophecy concerning the judgment and lamentation over Moab, a neighboring nation of Israel. The mention of Beer-elim in this context suggests it was a notable location within the region of Moab. Geographical Context The exact location of Beer-elim is not definitively known, but it is generally considered to be within the territory of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. Moab was a region characterized by its rugged terrain and was often in conflict with Israel. The mention of Beer-elim alongside other Moabite locations like Eglaim indicates its importance in the regional geography and its role in the prophetic narrative. Historical and Theological Significance Beer-elim's inclusion in Isaiah's prophecy highlights the widespread nature of the lamentation and judgment pronounced upon Moab. The well, as a source of water, would have been a critical resource in the arid landscape, symbolizing sustenance and life. In the context of Isaiah's prophecy, the mention of Beer-elim underscores the totality of Moab's distress, as even places of life and sustenance are caught up in the wailing and desolation. From a theological perspective, the prophecy against Moab, including the reference to Beer-elim, serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. The judgment pronounced upon Moab reflects the broader biblical theme of divine retribution against nations that oppose God's people or engage in idolatry and immorality. Beer-elim, as part of this narrative, is a testament to the comprehensive nature of God's judgment and the fulfillment of prophetic words. Cultural and Archaeological Insights While there is limited archaeological evidence directly associated with Beer-elim, the broader region of Moab has yielded significant findings that provide context to its biblical mentions. Moabite culture, language, and religion are well-documented through artifacts such as the Mesha Stele, which corroborates biblical accounts of Moab's interactions with Israel. In summary, Beer-elim is a biblically significant location mentioned in the context of divine judgment against Moab. Its mention in Isaiah's prophecy serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching impact of God's decrees and the historical realities faced by the nations surrounding Israel. Easton's Bible Dictionary Well of heroes, probably the name given to Beer, the place where the chiefs of Israel dug a well (Numbers 21:16; Isaiah 15:8). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEER-ELIMbe-er-e'-lim (be'er 'elim; phrear tou Aileim, literally "well of Elim"): Probably lay to the North of Moab, answering to Eglaim in the South (Isaiah 15:8). It may possibly be identical with BEER (1); but there is no certainty. Strong's Hebrew 879. Beer Elim -- "well of heroes," a city of MoabBeer Elim. 878, 879. Beer Elim. 880 . "well of heroes," a city of Moab. Transliteration: Beer Elim Phonetic Spelling: (be-ayr' ay ... /hebrew/879.htm - 6k Thesaurus Beerelim (1 Occurrence)... 15:8). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BEER-ELIM. be-er ... no certainty. Multi-Version Concordance Beerelim (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 15 ... /b/beerelim.htm - 7k Beer-elim (1 Occurrence) Beer-e'lim (1 Occurrence) Lamentation (45 Occurrences) Wail (50 Occurrences) Reaches (26 Occurrences) Eglaim (2 Occurrences) Egla'im (1 Occurrence) Elim (5 Occurrences) Echoes (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the biblical significance of Beer Lahai Roi? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about drinking alcohol / wine? Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol / wine? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Philistines? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Beer-elim (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 15:8 Subtopics Related Terms |