Topical Encyclopedia El-bethel, meaning "God of Bethel," is a significant location in the biblical narrative, particularly in the life of the patriarch Jacob. This site is associated with Jacob's profound encounters with God and serves as a place of divine revelation and covenantal reaffirmation.Biblical References: The primary reference to El-bethel is found in Genesis 35:7. The Berean Standard Bible states: "There Jacob built an altar, and he called the place El-bethel, because it was there that God had revealed Himself to him when he was fleeing from his brother." Historical and Theological Context: El-bethel is located in the region of Bethel, a place of great spiritual significance in the Old Testament. Bethel, meaning "House of God," was initially named by Jacob during his journey to Haran, as recorded in Genesis 28. It was here that Jacob experienced a divine vision of a ladder reaching to heaven, with angels ascending and descending upon it. In this vision, God reiterated the Abrahamic covenant, promising Jacob land, descendants, and blessings. Years later, after Jacob's return from Paddan-aram, God instructed him to go to Bethel and settle there. In obedience, Jacob journeyed to Bethel, where he built an altar and named the place El-bethel. This act of worship and dedication was a response to God's faithfulness and protection throughout Jacob's life, especially during his flight from Esau. Significance in Jacob's Life: El-bethel marks a pivotal moment in Jacob's spiritual journey. It is a place of remembrance and renewal, where Jacob acknowledges God's presence and guidance. The renaming of the site to El-bethel underscores the personal and relational aspect of Jacob's faith, highlighting God as the central figure in his life and the source of his blessings. Jacob's experience at El-bethel also signifies a turning point, as he calls his household to put away foreign gods and purify themselves (Genesis 35:2-4). This act of consecration reflects a deeper commitment to the God of his fathers and a rejection of idolatry, aligning his family with the covenantal promises. Symbolism and Legacy: El-bethel serves as a symbol of God's enduring faithfulness and the importance of returning to foundational spiritual truths. It reminds believers of the necessity of worship, obedience, and the continual renewal of one's relationship with God. The events at El-bethel emphasize the transformative power of divine encounters and the call to live in accordance with God's will. In the broader biblical narrative, Bethel, and by extension El-bethel, becomes a significant site for the Israelites, representing God's presence and the fulfillment of His promises. It is a testament to the enduring nature of God's covenant and His unwavering commitment to His people throughout generations. Easton's Bible Dictionary God of Bethel, the name of the place where Jacob had the vision of the ladder, and where he erected an altar (Genesis 31:13; 35:7). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia EL-BETH-ELel-beth'-el (el beth-'el, "God of Bethel"; Baithel): Strong's Hebrew 416. El Beth-el -- "the God of Bethel," an altar of Jacob... El Beth-el. 417 . "the God of Bethel," an altar of Jacob. Transliteration: El Beth-el Phonetic Spelling: (ale bayth-ale') Short Definition: El-bethel. ... /hebrew/416.htm - 6k Library Chapter xxxv Chapter xxxiv Appendices Thesaurus Elbethel (1 Occurrence)... 35:7). Multi-Version Concordance Elbethel (1 Occurrence). Genesis 35:7 And he built there an altar, and called the place Elbethel... /e/elbethel.htm - 7k El-bethel (1 Occurrence) El-beth-el (1 Occurrence) El-be'rith (1 Occurrence) Bethel (67 Occurrences) Appeared (137 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the word Elohim? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jacob in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance El-bethel (1 Occurrence)Genesis 35:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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