Topical Encyclopedia Beth-re'hob is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the context of the territorial descriptions and historical narratives of ancient Israel. The name "Beth-re'hob" translates to "house of the street" or "house of the open place," suggesting a settlement or community situated in a broad or open area.Biblical References: 1. Judges 18:28 · Beth-re'hob is mentioned in the account of the Danites' conquest of Laish. The verse states: "There was no one to deliver them, because they lived far from Sidon and had no dealings with anyone. It was in the valley that belongs to Beth-rehob. Then they rebuilt the city and lived in it." This passage highlights the geographical isolation of Laish, which was near Beth-re'hob, and underscores the vulnerability of the city to the Danite attack. 2. 2 Samuel 10:6 · The city is also referenced in the context of King David's military campaigns. When the Ammonites realized they had become odious to David, they hired Arameans from Beth-re'hob among others to bolster their forces: "When the Ammonites saw that they had become a stench to David, they sent and hired the Arameans of Beth-rehob and the Arameans of Zobah, twenty thousand foot soldiers, and the king of Maacah with a thousand men, and twelve thousand men from Tob." Geographical and Historical Context: Beth-re'hob is believed to have been located in the northern part of ancient Israel, possibly in the region of the Beqaa Valley or near the modern-day border of Lebanon and Israel. Its mention alongside Sidon and its association with Aramean forces suggest it was part of the broader Aramean territories or influence during the biblical period. The strategic significance of Beth-re'hob is implied through its involvement in military alliances and conflicts. Its proximity to major trade routes and neighboring city-states would have made it a valuable ally or target in regional power struggles. Cultural and Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the references to Beth-re'hob in the Bible illustrate the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. The narrative in Judges highlights the theme of divine providence and judgment, as the isolated city of Laish falls to the Danites, who seek a new homeland. In 2 Samuel, the hiring of mercenaries from Beth-re'hob by the Ammonites reflects the broader theme of God's sovereignty over the nations and the futility of opposing His anointed king, David. Beth-re'hob serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human alliances and the ultimate authority of God in the affairs of nations. Its role in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant and the consequences of straying from His commandments. Concordance Beth-re'hob (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 10:6 Thesaurus Beth-re'hob (1 Occurrence)Beth-re'hob. Beth-rehob, Beth-re'hob. Bethsaida . Multi-Version Concordance Beth-re'hob (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 10:6 And when the ... /b/beth-re'hob.htm - 6k Beth-rehob (2 Occurrences) Bethrehob (2 Occurrences) Bethsaida (7 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 |
    |