Bethezel is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Micah. The name "Bethezel" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "house of nearness" or "house of separation." It is referenced in the context of a prophecy concerning the judgment and lamentation of various cities in the region of Judah.

Biblical Reference:

The primary mention of Bethezel is found in Micah 1:11, where the prophet Micah delivers a message of impending judgment upon the cities of Judah due to their transgressions. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as follows:

"Pass on, O inhabitant of Shaphir, in nakedness and shame; the inhabitant of Zaanan will not come out. Beth Ezel is in mourning; its support is taken from you."

In this passage, Bethezel is depicted as a place experiencing mourning and loss. The context suggests that Bethezel, along with other cities, is suffering the consequences of divine judgment. The phrase "its support is taken from you" implies that Bethezel, once a place of refuge or strength, is now unable to provide assistance or protection to its inhabitants or neighboring cities.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The exact location of Bethezel is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible outside of Micah 1:11. Some scholars suggest that it may have been a small settlement or village in the vicinity of other cities mentioned in Micah's prophecy, such as Shaphir and Zaanan. The lack of archaeological evidence makes it difficult to pinpoint its precise location.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Bethezel in Micah's prophecy serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the reality of divine judgment. The lamentation and mourning associated with Bethezel highlight the broader theme of repentance and the need for the people of Judah to turn back to God. The prophetic message underscores the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's covenant.

The reference to Bethezel, though brief, contributes to the overall narrative of the book of Micah, which calls for justice, mercy, and humility before God. It serves as a poignant illustration of the impact of sin on communities and the necessity of seeking God's forgiveness and restoration.

Conclusion:

While Bethezel is not a prominent location in biblical history, its mention in the book of Micah provides insight into the spiritual and moral condition of Judah during the time of the prophet. The mourning of Bethezel reflects the broader themes of judgment and redemption that are central to the prophetic literature of the Old Testament.Bethezel

(neighbor's house), a place named only in (Micah 1:11) From the context it was doubtless situated in the plain of Philistia.

BETH-EZEL

beth-e'-zel (beth ha-'etsel; oikos echomenous autes; literally, "adjoining house"): A place named along with other cities in the Philistine plain (Micah 1:11). The site has not been identified. By some it is thought to be the same as Azel of Zechariah 14:5; but see AZEL.

Bethezel (1 Occurrence)
... By some it is thought to be the same as Azel of Zechariah 14:5; but see
AZEL. Multi-Version Concordance Bethezel (1 Occurrence). ...
/b/bethezel.htm - 7k

Bethesda (1 Occurrence)

/b/bethesda.htm - 11k

Beth-ezel (1 Occurrence)
Beth-ezel. Bethezel, Beth-ezel. Beth-e'zel . Int. ... (ASV BBE DBY JPS WBS YLT
NAS). Bethezel, Beth-ezel. Beth-e'zel . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-ezel.htm - 7k

Saphir (1 Occurrence)
... Micah 1:11 Pass ye away, thou inhabitant of Saphir, having thy shame naked: the
inhabitant of Zaanan came not forth in the mourning of Bethezel; he shall ...
/s/saphir.htm - 7k

Mourning (85 Occurrences)
... Micah 1:11 Pass ye away, thou inhabitant of Saphir, having thy shame naked: the
inhabitant of Zaanan came not forth in the mourning of Bethezel; he shall ...
/m/mourning.htm - 34k

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