Topical Encyclopedia Beth-Leaphrah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Micah. The name "Beth-Leaphrah" translates to "house of dust" or "house of the dust," which is significant in the context of the prophetic message delivered by Micah. This town is part of a series of wordplays and lamentations directed towards various cities in Judah, highlighting the impending judgment and calamity that would befall them due to their sins and transgressions.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to Beth-Leaphrah is found in Micah 1:10-16. In this passage, the prophet Micah delivers a message of mourning and doom to the cities of Judah. Micah 1:10-11 states: "Tell it not in Gath; weep not at all. Roll in the dust at Beth-Leaphrah." This verse uses a play on words, as the name Beth-Leaphrah itself means "house of dust," and the inhabitants are called to roll in the dust as a sign of mourning and humiliation. Historical and Geographical Context: Beth-Leaphrah is believed to have been a small town or village in the Shephelah region of Judah, although its exact location remains uncertain. The Shephelah was a region of lowlands situated between the coastal plains and the central highlands of Judah. This area was often a battleground due to its strategic location, making it susceptible to invasions and conflicts. The mention of Beth-Leaphrah in Micah's prophecy suggests that it was part of a broader message to the people of Judah, warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and social injustices. The call to "roll in the dust" symbolizes deep mourning and repentance, urging the people to recognize their spiritual state and turn back to God. Theological Significance: The reference to Beth-Leaphrah in Micah's prophecy serves as a poignant reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment. The imagery of rolling in the dust conveys a sense of humility and contrition, which are essential attitudes for repentance. This passage underscores the theme of accountability before God, as well as the hope for restoration through genuine repentance. Micah's message to Beth-Leaphrah and the surrounding cities reflects the broader prophetic tradition in the Old Testament, where prophets called the people of Israel and Judah to return to covenant faithfulness. The lamentations over these cities serve as a warning to all believers about the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the importance of living a life that honors Him. In summary, Beth-Leaphrah, though briefly mentioned, plays a significant role in the prophetic literature of the Bible. It serves as a symbol of mourning and repentance, reminding the faithful of the need to remain steadfast in their devotion to God and to seek His mercy and forgiveness in times of spiritual decline. 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 PalestineBeth Leaphrah. 1035, 1036. Beth Leaphrah. 1037 . "house to dust," a place in Palestine. Transliteration: Beth Leaphrah Phonetic ... /hebrew/1036.htm - 6k Library And ii. Thesaurus Bethleaphrah...BETH-LEAPHRAH. beth-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. ... /b/bethleaphrah.htm - 7k Beth-leaphrah Beth-le-aphrah (1 Occurrence) Beth-joab (1 Occurrence) Aphrah (1 Occurrence) 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 |
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