Etymology and Meaning: The name "Beth-Baalmeon" is derived from Hebrew, where "Beth" means "house" and "Baalmeon" refers to "Baal of Meon" or "lord of the habitation." This suggests that the location was originally associated with the worship of the Canaanite deity Baal.

Biblical References: Beth-Baalmeon is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament. It is first noted in the context of the territorial allotments given to the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 13:17, it is listed among the cities in the territory of Reuben: "Heshbon, and all its cities on the plain: Dibon, Bamoth-baal, Beth-baal-meon." This indicates its significance as a city within the tribal inheritance of Reuben, situated on the eastern side of the Jordan River.

In Numbers 32:38, the city is mentioned again in the context of the Reubenites and Gadites building fortified cities: "Nebo, Baal-meon (their names being changed), and Sibmah. They gave other names to the cities they built." This passage highlights the practice of renaming cities, possibly to reflect a new identity or to distance them from their pagan associations.

Historical and Geographical Context: Beth-Baalmeon was located in the region of Moab, east of the Jordan River. The area was known for its fertile plains, making it a valuable location for settlement and agriculture. The city was strategically important due to its proximity to trade routes and its role as a center of local governance and commerce.

Archaeological Insights: The site traditionally identified with Beth-Baalmeon is modern-day Ma'in, located in present-day Jordan. Archaeological excavations in the region have uncovered remains that suggest a long history of occupation, including evidence of fortifications and domestic structures. These findings align with the biblical narrative of the city being fortified by the Reubenites.

Cultural and Religious Significance: The association of Beth-Baalmeon with Baal worship reflects the syncretistic religious practices that were common in the region prior to and during the early Israelite settlement. The renaming of the city by the Israelites may indicate an effort to assert monotheistic worship and to eliminate the influence of Canaanite deities.

Prophetic References: The city is also mentioned in the prophetic literature. In Jeremiah 48:23, Beth-Baalmeon is included in a list of Moabite cities that are subject to judgment: "upon Kiriathaim, upon Beth-gamul, upon Beth-meon." This reflects the broader theme of divine judgment against Moab for its opposition to Israel and its idolatrous practices.

Conclusion: While Beth-Baalmeon is not one of the most frequently mentioned locations in the Bible, its references provide valuable insights into the historical and religious dynamics of the Transjordan region during the biblical period. The city's transformation from a center of Baal worship to a part of the Israelite tribal inheritance illustrates the complex interplay between culture, religion, and identity in the ancient Near East.Beth-Baalmeon

an idol of the dwelling-place

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus