Jump to: Hitchcock's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Beth-car is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of a significant victory for the Israelites over the Philistines. The name "Beth-car" is believed to mean "house of the lamb" or "house of the pasture," though its exact meaning and location remain subjects of scholarly discussion. Biblical Reference: The sole biblical reference to Beth-car is found in 1 Samuel 7:11. This passage describes a pivotal moment in Israel's history when the Israelites, under the leadership of the prophet Samuel, achieved a decisive victory against the Philistines. The Berean Standard Bible renders the verse as follows: "The men of Israel went out from Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, striking them down all the way to a place below Beth-car." (1 Samuel 7:11) Historical Context: The event at Beth-car occurred during a time when the Israelites were under constant threat from the Philistines, a formidable enemy who had previously captured the Ark of the Covenant. The victory at Beth-car was part of a larger narrative of Israel's deliverance, which began with the people's repentance and Samuel's intercession on their behalf. Significance in Israel's History: The victory at Beth-car is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked a turning point in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines. The Israelites' success was attributed to divine intervention, as the Lord thundered with a mighty sound that threw the Philistines into confusion (1 Samuel 7:10). This event reinforced the importance of faithfulness and reliance on God for deliverance. Secondly, the victory at Beth-car led to a period of peace and stability for Israel. Following this triumph, Samuel set up a stone between Mizpah and Shen, naming it Ebenezer, which means "stone of help," to commemorate the Lord's assistance (1 Samuel 7:12). This act served as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and the power of prayer and repentance. Geographical Considerations: The precise location of Beth-car is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. Some scholars suggest it was situated in the hill country of Ephraim, given its association with Mizpah. However, without archaeological evidence or additional biblical references, the exact site remains speculative. Theological Implications: Beth-car's mention in the biblical narrative underscores several theological themes. It highlights the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable odds. The event also emphasizes the importance of spiritual leadership, as exemplified by Samuel, who guided the Israelites back to a covenant relationship with God. Furthermore, the victory at Beth-car serves as a testament to the power of collective repentance and prayer. The Israelites' return to the Lord and their subsequent victory illustrate the biblical principle that God honors those who seek Him with a contrite heart. Conclusion: While Beth-car is a minor geographical reference in the Bible, its role in the narrative of Israel's deliverance from the Philistines is significant. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of spiritual renewal and reliance on divine intervention in times of crisis. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Beth-CarATS Bible Dictionary Beth-CarIn Dan, near Mizpeh; noted for the defeat of the Philistines, and the Eben-Ezer set up by Samuel, 1 Samuel 7:11. Easton's Bible Dictionary Sheep-house, a place to which the Israelites pursued the Philistines west from Mizpeh (1 Samuel 7:11). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-CARbeth'-kar (beth-kar; Baithchor, Belchor): "And the men of Israel went out of Mizpah, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, Until they came under Beth-car" (1 Samuel 7:11). `Ain Karem has been suggested; if Mizpah is nebi Samwil then this identification is probable, as the pursuit would be along the deep Wady beit Hannineh-a natural line of retreat for the Philistines to take. Strong's Hebrew 1033. Beth Kar -- "place of a lamb," a place in Palestine... "place of a lamb," a place in Palestine. Transliteration: Beth Kar Phonetic Spelling: (bayth kar) Short Definition: Beth-car. ... NASB Word Usage Beth-car (1). ... /hebrew/1033.htm - 6k Library Repentance and victory The Expedition of the Philistines against the Hebrews and the ... Thesaurus Bethcar (1 Occurrence)... And the men of Israel went out of Mizpah, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, Until they came under Beth-car" (1 Samuel 7:11). ...Bethcar (1 Occurrence). ... /b/bethcar.htm - 7k Beth-car (1 Occurrence) Beth-cherem (2 Occurrences) Beth-biri (1 Occurrence) Car (1 Occurrence) Attacking (73 Occurrences) Below (52 Occurrences) Mizpeh (24 Occurrences) Beth-haccherem (2 Occurrences) Bethhaccherem Resources What does the Bible say about insecurity? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be saved by grace? | GotQuestions.org What is the kalam cosmological argument for the existence of God? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Beth-car (1 Occurrence)1 Samuel 7:11 Subtopics Beth-Car: A Place West of Mizpeh Related Terms |
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