Overview:
Shebah is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of a well that holds significant historical and theological importance. The name "Shebah" is associated with the patriarch Isaac and is linked to the broader narrative of God's covenantal promises to the patriarchs.

Biblical References:
The primary reference to Shebah is found in Genesis 26:33. The verse states, "So he called it Shebah. Therefore the name of the city is Beersheba to this day" . This passage is part of the account of Isaac, the son of Abraham, who re-dug the wells originally dug by his father, Abraham, which had been stopped up by the Philistines.

Historical Context:
The well of Shebah is located in the region of Beersheba, a significant site in the biblical narrative. Beersheba is situated in the southern part of ancient Israel, marking the southern boundary of the land often described in the phrase "from Dan to Beersheba." The well and the city of Beersheba are frequently mentioned in the patriarchal narratives, serving as a place of residence and worship for Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Theological Significance:
The naming of the well as Shebah, which means "oath" or "seven," is deeply symbolic. It reflects the covenantal relationship between God and the patriarchs. In Genesis 26, Isaac's naming of the well signifies a reaffirmation of God's promises to him, echoing the covenant made with Abraham. The well becomes a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and provision.

The act of naming the well Shebah also underscores the theme of divine providence and blessing. Despite opposition from the Philistines, who contested Isaac's claim to the water sources, God provided for Isaac, ensuring his prosperity and the continuation of the covenantal line.

Cultural and Geographical Importance:
Beersheba, where the well of Shebah is located, became an important center in the biblical narrative. It served as a patriarchal dwelling place and later as a significant city in the Kingdom of Judah. The well itself symbolizes sustenance and life in the arid Negev region, highlighting the importance of water in the ancient Near Eastern context.

Legacy:
The legacy of Shebah and Beersheba extends beyond the biblical text. The site has been identified with modern-day Be'er Sheva in Israel, which continues to be a significant urban center. The historical and spiritual heritage of Shebah is preserved in the ongoing recognition of Beersheba as a place of historical and religious significance.

In summary, Shebah is more than just a well; it is a testament to God's enduring promises and the faithfulness of the patriarchs in the face of adversity. The well of Shebah, and its association with Beersheba, remains a powerful symbol of God's provision and the fulfillment of His covenantal promises throughout the generations.Shebah

(an oath), the famous well which gave its name to the city of Beersheba. (Genesis 26:53) [BEERSHEBA, OR BEERSHEBA]

SHEBAH

she'-ba.

See SHIBAH.

7656. Shibah -- a well in Beersheba
... Shebah. Masculine of sheba'; seven(-th); Shebah, a well in Palestine -- Shebah.
see HEBREW sheba'. 7655, 7656. Shibah. 7657 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/7656.htm - 6k

884. Beer Sheba -- "well of seven," a place in the Negev
... Beer-shebah. From 'er and sheba' (in the sense of shaba'); well of an oath;
Beer-Sheba, a place in Palestine -- Beer-shebah. see HEBREW 'er. see HEBREW sheba'. ...
/hebrew/884.htm - 6k

Shebah (1 Occurrence)
...SHEBAH. she'-ba. See SHIBAH. ...Shebah (1 Occurrence). Genesis 26:33 And he called it
Shebah: therefore the name of the city is Beersheba unto this day. ...
/s/shebah.htm - 6k

Shibah (1 Occurrence)
... shi'-ba (shibh`ah, "seven"; horkos; Swete reads Phrear horkou, literally, "well
of oath"; the King James Version Shebah): The name of the original well of Beer ...
/s/shibah.htm - 7k

Shebam (1 Occurrence)

/s/shebam.htm - 6k

Calleth (261 Occurrences)
... Genesis 26:33 and he calleth it Shebah, 'oath,' therefore the name of the city
'is' Beer-Sheba, 'well of the oath,' unto this day. (YLT). ...
/c/calleth.htm - 35k

Sheba (36 Occurrences)

/s/sheba.htm - 32k

Oath (286 Occurrences)
... (BBE NAS RSV NIV). Genesis 26:33 and he calleth it Shebah, 'oath,' therefore the
name of the city 'is' Beer-Sheba, 'well of the oath,' unto this day. (YLT). ...
/o/oath.htm - 47k

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