### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Bêyth hâ-ʻĂrâbâh** `{{H1026}}`, meaning "house of the Desert," designates a specific place in Palestine. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** of the Bible. The name is formed from the words for "house" and "desert" with the article interposed. It is also referred to as Beth-arabah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1026}}` is identified as a specific location within the tribal allotments. It is listed as one of the cities "in the **wilderness**" [[Joshua 15:61]]. It also serves as a key geographical marker, defining the **border** `{{H1366}}` between territories [[Joshua 15:6]]. In the allocation of land, Betharabah is explicitly named as one of the cities given to the tribe of Benjamin [[Joshua 18:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and location of Betharabah:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border): This term for a boundary or territory is used to situate Betharabah, as the **border** went up to Bethhogla and passed north of Betharabah [[Joshua 15:6]]. It emphasizes the division and allocation of land.
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): Defined as a pasture or desert, this word describes the region where Betharabah is located [[Joshua 15:61]]. The **wilderness** is a recurring setting in scripture, often a place of testing and divine preparation [[Isaiah 40:3]].
* `{{H1008}}` **Bêyth-ʼÊl** (house of God): Listed alongside Betharabah as a city of Benjamin [[Joshua 18:22]], its name provides a thematic contrast to the "house of the Desert." **Bethel** was a significant site of worship and divine encounters [[Genesis 35:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1026}}` is primarily geographical and historical, tied to the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.
* **Defining Inheritance:** As a landmark, Betharabah plays a role in establishing the precise **border** `{{H1366}}` of the promised land given to the tribes, as seen in the detailed description of the territory's boundaries [[Joshua 15:6]].
* **Settlement in the Wilderness:** The placement of a town in the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` demonstrates the settlement of lands that were previously uninhabited or desolate, connecting to the theme of God making a way in the desert ([[Joshua 15:61]], [[Isaiah 43:19]]).
* **Tribal Possession:** Its inclusion in the list of cities for the tribe of Benjamin solidifies its place within the covenantal allotment of land to God's people [[Joshua 18:22]].
### Summary
In summary, **Bêyth hâ-ʻĂrâbâh** `{{H1026}}` is not merely a name on a map but a significant location in Israel's history. Its identity as the "house of the Desert" and its role as a city and border marker in the **wilderness** [[Joshua 15:61]] are integral to understanding the biblical accounts of the tribal land distribution. It serves as a tangible marker of the fulfillment of God's promise to settle His people in their designated inheritance.
TRV