Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Beth-le-aphrah, meaning "house of dust," is a location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The name reflects a common practice in ancient times of naming places based on geographical features or significant events associated with them. The term "aphrah" translates to "dust" or "ashes," which may symbolize mourning or desolation. Biblical Reference: Beth-le-aphrah is referenced in the book of Micah, specifically in Micah 1:10. The prophet Micah, who ministered during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, uses a play on words to convey a message of impending judgment and lamentation. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as follows: "Tell it not in Gath; weep not at all. Roll in the dust at Beth-le-aphrah." In this passage, Micah is addressing the towns of Judah, warning them of the coming destruction due to their sins. The instruction to "roll in the dust" at Beth-le-aphrah is a symbolic act of mourning and repentance, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Historical and Geographical Context: The exact location of Beth-le-aphrah is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible outside of Micah 1:10. Some scholars suggest it may have been a small village or settlement in the region of Judah, possibly near other towns mentioned in Micah's prophecy. The context of Micah's message suggests that it was part of a series of towns that would experience devastation as a result of divine judgment. Theological Significance: Beth-le-aphrah serves as a poignant symbol in Micah's prophecy. The act of rolling in the dust is a traditional expression of grief and humility before God. This imagery underscores the call to repentance and the acknowledgment of sin. The mention of Beth-le-aphrah in the context of judgment highlights the broader theme of accountability and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. Micah's use of wordplay and geographical references serves to communicate the seriousness of the message to his contemporaries. The prophet's lamentation over the towns of Judah, including Beth-le-aphrah, reflects the deep sorrow over the nation's spiritual decline and the urgent need for repentance. Cultural and Literary Aspects: The literary style of Micah, including the use of puns and wordplay, is characteristic of Hebrew prophetic literature. By employing such techniques, Micah effectively captures the attention of his audience and conveys the emotional weight of his message. The reference to Beth-le-aphrah, with its evocative meaning, adds to the vivid imagery of the prophecy. In summary, Beth-le-aphrah, though briefly mentioned, plays a significant role in the prophetic narrative of Micah. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of humility and repentance before God. Easton's Bible Dictionary (R.V. Micah 1:10), house of dust. The Authorized Version reads "in the house of Aphrah." This is probably the name of a town in the Shephelah, or "low country," between Joppa and Gaza. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-LEAPHRAHbeth-le-af'-ra (beth le`aphrah; Septuagint ex oikou kata gelota, "house of dust"): The name of a place found only in Micah 1:10. From the connection in which it is used it was probably in the Philistine plain. There seems to be a play upon the name in the sentence, "at Beth le-`apharah have I rolled myself in the dust," `aphrah meaning "dust," and possibly another on Philistine in rolled, hith-palldshithi (see G. A. Smith, The Book of the Twelve Prophets, called Minor, in the place cited.). Strong's Hebrew 1036. Beth Leaphrah -- "house to dust," a place in Palestine... "house to dust," a place in Palestine. Transliteration: Beth Leaphrah Phonetic Spelling: (bayth le-af-raw') Short Definition: Beth-le-aphrah. ... /hebrew/1036.htm - 6k Thesaurus Bethleaphrah... BETH-LEAPHRAH. beth-le-af'-ra (bethle`aphrah; Septuagint ex oikou kata gelota, "house of dust"): The name of a place found only in Micah 1:10. ... /b/bethleaphrah.htm - 7k Beth-le-aphrah (1 Occurrence) Beth-leaphrah Beth-le-aph'rah (1 Occurrence) Beth-joab (1 Occurrence) Rolling (32 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Naphtali? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Beth-le-aphrah (1 Occurrence)Micah 1:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
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