Elon-Beth-Hanan is a biblical town mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the territorial allotments of the tribe of Dan. The name "Elon-Beth-Hanan" can be translated to mean "Oak of the House of Grace" or "Oak of the House of Favor," reflecting the common biblical practice of naming locations with significant natural or spiritual connotations.

Biblical Reference:

Elon-Beth-Hanan is referenced in the context of the tribal inheritance of Dan in the Book of Joshua. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following mention:

· Joshua 19:43: "Elon, Timnah, Ekron,"

In this passage, Elon is listed among the towns within the inheritance of the tribe of Dan. While the specific mention of "Beth-Hanan" is not directly found in this verse, it is understood through historical and biblical scholarship that Elon-Beth-Hanan is associated with the region of Dan, as the names of towns and regions often evolved or were compounded over time.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The tribe of Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and Bilhah. The territory allotted to Dan was located in the western part of the land of Canaan, bordering the Mediterranean Sea. This region was known for its fertile land and strategic location, which included access to important trade routes.

Elon-Beth-Hanan, as part of Dan's inheritance, would have been situated within this context, contributing to the agricultural and economic activities of the tribe. The mention of "Elon," meaning "oak," suggests the presence of significant oak trees or groves, which were often landmarks or places of gathering in ancient Israelite culture.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

In the biblical narrative, the towns and cities of the tribes of Israel hold both historical and theological significance. They represent the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—regarding the land of Canaan. Each town, including Elon-Beth-Hanan, is a testament to the faithfulness of God in providing for His people.

The tribe of Dan, however, faced challenges in fully possessing their allotted territory. The Book of Judges recounts the struggles of the Danites to secure their inheritance, leading to their eventual migration northward to capture the city of Laish, which they renamed Dan (Judges 18). This historical context underscores the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the surrounding Canaanite peoples, as well as the spiritual challenges faced by the tribes in maintaining their covenantal relationship with God.

Archaeological Insights:

While specific archaeological evidence for Elon-Beth-Hanan is limited, the broader region of Dan has been the subject of significant archaeological interest. Excavations at sites such as Tel Dan have provided insights into the material culture, religious practices, and historical developments of the area during the biblical period. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the life and times of the Danites and their interactions with neighboring cultures.

In summary, Elon-Beth-Hanan, as a town within the territory of Dan, holds a place within the rich tapestry of Israel's history as recorded in the Bible. Its mention, though brief, is part of the larger narrative of God's provision and the unfolding account of His people in the Promised Land.1 Kings 4:9
The son of Dekar, in Makaz, and in Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, and Elonbethhanan:
Nave's Topical Index

Who was Zebulun in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the Book of Jasher and should it be in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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