Topical Encyclopedia Beth-ma'acah, also known as Abel-beth-ma'acah, is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is primarily recognized as a fortified city in the northern kingdom of Israel, situated near the border with Aram (modern-day Syria). The name "Beth-ma'acah" translates to "house of Ma'acah," indicating a possible connection to a person or a deity named Ma'acah.Biblical References: 1. 2 Samuel 20:14-15 · Beth-ma'acah is notably mentioned in the context of Sheba's rebellion against King David. Sheba, a Benjamite, led a revolt and sought refuge in Abel-beth-ma'acah. Joab, David's military commander, pursued Sheba to this city. The passage states: "Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel-beth-ma'acah and through the entire region of the Berites, who gathered together and followed him. And Joab’s troops came and besieged Sheba in Abel-beth-ma'acah. They built a siege ramp against the outer rampart of the city, and all the troops with Joab were battering the wall to bring it down" . 2. 1 Kings 15:20 · The city is also mentioned during the reign of King Asa of Judah. Asa formed an alliance with Ben-hadad, the king of Aram, to counter the threat posed by Baasha, the king of Israel. Ben-hadad attacked several cities, including Abel-beth-ma'acah: "So Ben-hadad listened to King Asa and sent the commanders of his armies against the cities of Israel, conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel-beth-ma'acah, and all the land of Naphtali, including the store cities" . 3. 2 Kings 15:29 · Abel-beth-ma'acah is again mentioned during the reign of Pekah, king of Israel. Tiglath-pileser III, the king of Assyria, invaded Israel and captured several cities, including Abel-beth-ma'acah: "In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and took Ijon, Abel-beth-ma'acah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee—all the land of Naphtali—and he deported the people to Assyria" . Historical and Archaeological Insights: Beth-ma'acah's strategic location made it a significant site throughout various periods of Israel's history. Its proximity to the northern border made it a target for foreign invasions and a refuge for those seeking to escape the central authority of Israel. Archaeological excavations at the site, identified with modern-day Tell Abil el-Qameh, have revealed evidence of its occupation during the Bronze and Iron Ages. Findings include fortifications, pottery, and other artifacts that align with the biblical narrative of a fortified city. Theological Significance: Beth-ma'acah serves as a backdrop for several key events in Israel's history, illustrating themes of rebellion, political alliances, and divine judgment. The city's repeated mention in the context of military campaigns underscores the turbulent nature of Israel's northern borders and the constant threat from neighboring powers. The account of Sheba's rebellion and the wise woman's intervention (2 Samuel 20:16-22) highlights the role of wisdom and diplomacy in resolving conflicts, as she successfully negotiates with Joab to spare the city by delivering Sheba's head. This narrative emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and wisdom in times of crisis. Beth-ma'acah's history, as recorded in the Bible, serves as a testament to the complex interplay of faith, politics, and warfare in the ancient Near East, providing valuable lessons for understanding the challenges faced by God's people throughout history. Concordance Beth-ma'acah (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 20:14 Thesaurus A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah (2 Occurrences)A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah. Abel-beth-maacah, A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah. Abelbethmaachah . Multi-Version Concordance A'bel-Beth-Ma'acah (2 Occurrences). ... /a/a'bel-beth-ma'acah.htm - 7k Beth-ma'acah (1 Occurrence) Abel-beth-maacah (2 Occurrences) Beth-maacah (1 Occurrence) Abelbethmaachah (2 Occurrences) Bethmaachah (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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