Topical Encyclopedia Bethmillo, often referred to simply as "the Millo," is a term found in the Old Testament, primarily associated with the city of Jerusalem. The term "Millo" is believed to mean "fill" or "rampart," suggesting a structure or fortification that was part of the city's defenses. It is mentioned in several key passages, indicating its significance in the history and development of ancient Israel.Biblical References: 1. Judges 9:6, 20 · The earliest mention of Millo is in the context of the account of Abimelech, the son of Gideon. In Judges 9:6, it is recorded: "Then all the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo gathered beside the oak at the pillar in Shechem, and they made Abimelech their king." This passage suggests that Bethmillo was a location of political importance, possibly a fortified area or a significant gathering place for leaders. 2. 2 Samuel 5:9 · The Millo is mentioned in the account of King David's conquest and fortification of Jerusalem. "So David took up residence in the fortress and called it the City of David. He built up the area around it, from the supporting terraces inward." This indicates that the Millo was part of the construction efforts to strengthen the city, contributing to its defense and infrastructure. 3. 1 Kings 9:15, 24 · During the reign of Solomon, further construction at the Millo is noted. "This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon conscripted to build the house of the LORD, his own palace, the supporting terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer." Solomon's building projects included the Millo, emphasizing its continued strategic importance. 4. 1 Kings 11:27 · The Millo is also mentioned in the context of Jeroboam's rebellion against Solomon. "This is the reason he rebelled against the king: Solomon had built the supporting terraces and repaired the wall of the city of his father David." The construction and repair of the Millo were significant enough to be noted as part of the political tensions of the time. 5. 2 Kings 12:20 · The Millo is referenced in the account of the assassination of King Joash. "His servants conspired against him and killed Joash at Beth-millo, on the road that goes down to Silla." This passage highlights the Millo as a notable location within the city, possibly a place where significant events occurred. Historical and Archaeological Insights: The exact nature and location of the Millo have been subjects of scholarly debate. Some suggest it was a stepped stone structure or a series of terraces that supported the city's fortifications. Archaeological excavations in Jerusalem have uncovered structures that may correspond to the biblical descriptions of the Millo, providing insights into the ancient city's layout and defensive strategies. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the Millo represents the efforts of Israel's leaders to establish and secure Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. The construction and fortification of the city, including the Millo, reflect the fulfillment of God's promises to David and his descendants, as Jerusalem became the enduring capital of the Israelite kingdom. In summary, Bethmillo, or the Millo, is a significant biblical term associated with the fortifications of Jerusalem. Its mentions in various biblical narratives underscore its importance in the political and military history of ancient Israel. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-MILLObeth-mil'-o. Thesaurus BethmilloBethmillo. Beth-merhak, Bethmillo. Beth-millo . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETH-MILLO. beth-mil'-o. See JERUSALEM. Beth-merhak, Bethmillo. Beth-millo ... /b/bethmillo.htm - 6k Beth-merhak (1 Occurrence) Beth-millo (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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