Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Bethhaccherem, meaning "House of the Vineyard" in Hebrew, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name suggests a place associated with vineyards, indicating its possible agricultural significance in ancient times. Biblical References Bethhaccherem is referenced in the Bible in the context of the tribe of Judah. The primary mention is found in the book of Jeremiah and the book of Nehemiah: 1. Jeremiah 6:1 : "Flee for safety, O children of Benjamin, from the midst of Jerusalem! Sound the ram’s horn in Tekoa; raise a signal over Bethhaccherem, for disaster looms from the north, even great destruction." In this passage, Bethhaccherem is identified as a strategic location for signaling an impending threat. The context suggests it was a high place, suitable for raising a signal visible from a distance. 2. Nehemiah 3:14 : "The Dung Gate was repaired by Malkijah son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Bethhaccherem. He rebuilt it and installed its doors, bolts, and bars." Here, Bethhaccherem is noted as a district under the leadership of Malkijah, who participated in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. This indicates its administrative importance and its integration into the broader community of Judah. Historical and Geographical Context Bethhaccherem is traditionally identified with a hill located near modern-day Bethlehem, approximately five miles south of Jerusalem. Its elevated position would have made it an ideal location for a watchtower or signal station, as suggested by the reference in Jeremiah. The area's fertile land would have supported vineyards, aligning with the meaning of its name. Cultural and Theological Significance In the biblical narrative, Bethhaccherem serves as a symbol of vigilance and readiness. The call to raise a signal over Bethhaccherem in Jeremiah underscores the urgency and seriousness of the prophetic warning. It reflects the broader biblical theme of watchfulness and the need to heed divine warnings. The mention in Nehemiah highlights the cooperative effort in rebuilding Jerusalem, emphasizing the unity and dedication of the people of Judah in restoring their city after the Babylonian exile. Bethhaccherem's inclusion in this narrative underscores its role within the community and its contribution to the collective identity of the Israelites. Archaeological Insights While direct archaeological evidence of Bethhaccherem is limited, its proposed location aligns with known ancient routes and settlements in the region. The identification of the site with a hill near Bethlehem is supported by historical geography and the strategic considerations mentioned in the biblical text. Conclusion Bethhaccherem, though briefly mentioned in the Scriptures, provides insight into the social and strategic landscape of ancient Judah. Its role in biblical narratives as a place of warning and leadership reflects its importance in the life and history of the Israelite people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-HACCHEREMbeth-ha-ke'-rem, beth-hak'-e-rem (the King James Version Beth-haccerem; beth ha-kerem; Bethachcharma (see DB), "place of the vineyard"): A district (in Nehemiah 3:14) ruled over by one, Malchijah; mentioned in Jeremiah 6:1 as a suitable signal station. From its association with Tekoa (Jeremiah 6:1) and from the statement by Jerome that it was a village which he could see daily from Bethlehem, the Frank mountain (Herodium) has been suggested. It certainly would be a unique place for a beacon. More suitable is the fertile vineyard country around `Ain Karem (the "spring of the vineyard"). On the top of Jebel `Ali, above this village, are some remarkable cairns which, whatever their other uses, would appear to have been once beacons. `Ain Karem appears as Carem in the Septuagint (Joshua 15:59). Thesaurus Bethhaccherem/b/bethhaccherem.htm - 7k Beth-haccherem (2 Occurrences) Beth-haccerem (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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