Beth-Rehob is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the tribal allotment of Dan. The name "Beth-Rehob" translates to "House of Rehob," with "Rehob" possibly meaning "broad" or "spacious." This place is noted for its geographical and historical significance in the biblical narrative.

Biblical References:

Beth-Rehob is first mentioned in the context of the spies sent by the tribe of Dan to explore the land for potential settlement. In Judges 18:28, the text 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." This passage highlights the isolation of the area, which was a factor in the Danites' decision to conquer and settle in Laish, later renamed Dan.

The location is also referenced in 2 Samuel 10:6, where it is mentioned in the context of a military alliance. The verse reads, "When the Ammonites saw that they had become a stench to David, they hired Arameans from Beth-Rehob and Zobah, twenty thousand foot soldiers, as well as the king of Maacah with a thousand men, and twelve thousand men from Tob." This indicates that Beth-Rehob was a place of some military significance, capable of providing troops for hire.

Geographical Context:

Beth-Rehob is believed to be situated in the northern part of ancient Israel, near the border with modern-day Lebanon. Its exact location is not definitively known, but it is thought to be in the vicinity of the Beqaa Valley or near the modern town of Hasbaya. The mention of its proximity to Sidon suggests it was located in a region that was culturally and politically influenced by the Phoenicians.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

The mention of Beth-Rehob in the context of the Danite migration and settlement underscores the fluidity and complexity of tribal boundaries and interactions in ancient Israel. The Danites' movement from their original allotment to a more northern location reflects the challenges faced by the tribes in securing and maintaining their territories.

The hiring of troops from Beth-Rehob by the Ammonites in 2 Samuel suggests that the area was not only strategically important but also had established connections with other regional powers. This indicates a level of political and military organization that was significant enough to be noted in the biblical narrative.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the narrative involving Beth-Rehob illustrates themes of divine providence and judgment. The Danites' successful conquest of Laish, despite their initial struggles, can be seen as an example of God's provision for His people. Conversely, the hiring of Beth-Rehob's forces by the Ammonites, who were ultimately defeated by David, serves as a reminder of the futility of opposing God's anointed king.

Beth-Rehob, though not frequently mentioned, plays a role in the broader biblical narrative by highlighting the interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors, as well as the ongoing fulfillment of God's promises to the tribes of Israel.Judges 18:28
And there was no deliverer, because it was far from Zidon, and they had no business with any man; and it was in the valley that lies by Bethrehob. And they built a city, and dwelled therein.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 10:6
And when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before David, the children of Ammon sent and hired the Syrians of Bethrehob and the Syrians of Zoba, twenty thousand footmen, and of king Maacah a thousand men, and of Ishtob twelve thousand men.
Nave's Topical Index

1050. Beth-rechob -- "place of a street," a place near Dan
... rehob. Word Origin from bayith and rechob Definition "place of a street,"
a place near Dan NASB Word Usage Beth-rehob (2). Beth-rehob. ...
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