### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **Bêyth hâʼêtsel**, represented by `{{H1018}}`, translates to **house of the side**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. As a proper name, it refers to **Beth-ezel**, a specific place in Palestine mentioned in the prophetic writings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1018}}` is in the book of Micah, within a prophecy of judgment against the peoples of the land. In this context, **Bethezel** is referenced as a place of sorrow, with the text stating that the inhabitant of another town "came not forth in the mourning of **Bethezel**" [[Micah 1:11]]. This passage establishes the location as being overcome by lamentation and grief, so much so that its state impacts neighboring communities.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Micah 1:11]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): Used at the start of the verse, this word commands the inhabitants to "Pass ye away," setting a tone of exile and transition as a result of judgment [[Micah 1:11]]. It is used elsewhere to describe God passing by to show mercy [[Exodus 34:6]] or judgment [[Amos 5:17]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, remain): This word is used for "inhabitant" multiple times in the verse, identifying the people who are the subject of the prophecy [[Micah 1:11]]. Its root meaning can be to sit, dwell, or remain, as in the call for brethren to "dwell together in unity" [[Psalms 133:1]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): The verse states that Zaanan "came not forth," linking this word to inaction or inability to escape during the mourning of Bethezel [[Micah 1:11]]. The word more broadly means to go or bring out, as when God promises to "bring them out from the people" [[Ezekiel 34:13]].
* `{{H4553}}` **miçpêd** (a lamentation): This word is directly connected to the location, defining the "mourning of Bethezel" [[Micah 1:11]]. It signifies deep grief and wailing, often as a response to divine judgment or a call to repentance [[Joel 2:12]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1018}}` is entirely derived from its singular, specific context in prophecy.
* **A Place of Judgment:** **Bethezel** exists in scripture as a geographical marker within a prophecy of downfall. Its name is invoked to illustrate the tangible and localized nature of the coming destruction and sorrow [[Micah 1:11]].
* **Center of Lamentation:** The phrase "the mourning `{{H4553}}` of Bethezel" makes the location synonymous with grief. It is not just a place where mourning occurs, but the very standard of mourning by which the reaction of a neighboring town is measured [[Micah 1:11]].
* **Communal Consequence:** The passage indicates that the crisis at **Bethezel** has a ripple effect, as another town fails to respond and a penalty is enacted: "he shall receive `{{H3947}}` of you his standing" [[Micah 1:11]]. This highlights the interconnected fate of communities under judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1018}}` **Bêyth hâʼêtsel** is a place name whose entire biblical identity is shaped by one verse. Appearing only in [[Micah 1:11]], it is defined as a site of intense mourning and lamentation. It serves not as a major theological concept, but as a specific, grounded example within a prophetic oracle, illustrating the profound and inescapable sorrow that accompanies divine judgment.
TRV