Overview:
Beth-Rehob, also referred to simply as Rehob, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is associated with the region of Aram and is noted for its geographical and historical significance in the biblical narrative. The name "Beth-Rehob" translates to "House of Rehob," indicating a possible familial or tribal association with a person or deity named Rehob.

Biblical References:
Beth-Rehob is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial descriptions and historical events involving the Israelites and neighboring peoples.

1. Numbers 13:21 : "So they went up and spied out the land from the Wilderness of Zin as far as Rehob, toward Lebo-hamath." This passage describes the journey of the Israelite spies sent by Moses to explore the Promised Land. Rehob is noted as a northern boundary point, indicating its location near the entrance to the land of Canaan.

2. Judges 18:28 : "There was no one to save them, because they lived far from Sidon and had no alliance with anyone. It was in the valley that belonged to Beth-rehob. Then the Danites rebuilt the city and lived there." This verse recounts the conquest of the city of Laish by the tribe of Dan. The mention of Beth-Rehob situates the city in a valley, highlighting its strategic and isolated position.

3. 2 Samuel 10:6 : "When the Ammonites realized that they had become a stench to David, they hired twenty thousand Aramean foot soldiers from Beth-rehob and Zobah, as well as the king of Maacah with a thousand men, and twelve thousand men from Tob." This passage describes the military alliance formed by the Ammonites against King David, with Beth-Rehob providing troops. This indicates the city's involvement in regional politics and warfare.

Geographical Context:
Beth-Rehob is believed to have been located in the northern part of ancient Israel, near the border with modern-day Lebanon. Its proximity to significant trade routes and neighboring city-states like Sidon and Zobah suggests it was an important location for commerce and military strategy.

Historical Significance:
The references to Beth-Rehob in the context of military alliances and territorial boundaries underscore its role in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. The city's mention alongside other prominent locations indicates its relevance during the periods of the Judges and the United Monarchy of Israel.

Cultural and Theological Insights:
Beth-Rehob's inclusion in the biblical narrative reflects the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. The city's involvement in events such as the spying of the land and the conflicts with King David highlights the ongoing struggle for control and influence in the region. From a theological perspective, these accounts demonstrate the fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites regarding the land and their interactions with surrounding nations.

Archaeological Considerations:
While the exact location of Beth-Rehob remains uncertain, archaeological efforts continue to explore potential sites that match its biblical description. Discoveries in the region may provide further insights into the city's historical and cultural context during the biblical era.2 Samuel 10:8
And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array at the entering in of the gate: and the Syrians of Zoba, and of Rehob, and Ishtob, and Maacah, were by themselves in the field.
Nave's Topical Index

Persistency in Wrong Doing.
... He at once sent and hired the Syrians of Beth-rehob, and the Syrians of Zoba ... There
was a good old bishop of Alexandria called John the Almsgiver, and he and the ...
/.../xliii persistency in wrong doing.htm

What does the Bible say about sun worship? | GotQuestions.org

What is the longest chapter in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was King Pekah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus