### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew place name **Bêyth hash-Shiṭṭâh**, represented by `{{H1029}}`, means "house of the acacia." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. As a proper name, it refers to a specific location in Palestine, also rendered as Beth-shittah. Its significance is derived entirely from the single biblical event in which it is mentioned.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1029}}` is in the account of Gideon's victory. After the three hundred men blew their trumpets, the LORD `{{H3068}}` intervened directly in the battle. The scripture states that God set every man's `{{H376}}` sword `{{H2719}}` against his fellow `{{H7453}}` throughout the entire host `{{H4264}}`. This divine act caused mass confusion and internal conflict, leading the enemy army to flee `{{H5127}}` in a complete rout. **Bethshittah** is named as a key point on their path of escape [[Judges 7:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context in [[Judges 7:22]] help illuminate the scene:
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flit, i.e. vanish away, escape): This verb describes the primary action associated with Bethshittah; the host **fled** there in disarray [[Judges 7:22]].
* `{{H4264}}` **machăneh** (an encampment, an army, host): This identifies the large military force that was routed. The text emphasizes that the entire **host** fled, highlighting the scale of the panic [[Judges 7:22]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (a cutting instrument, sword): This was the instrument of the army's self-destruction. The LORD turned every man's **sword** against his companion, making them their own undoing [[Judges 7:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{H1029}}` is tied to the event it helps to locate.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The mention of **Bethshittah** is part of a narrative that underscores God's absolute control over conflict. Victory was achieved not by Israelite strength but because the LORD `{{H3068}}` caused the enemy to destroy itself [[Judges 7:22]].
* **A Landmark of Judgment:** The location serves as a geographical marker for the consequences of opposing God. The flight to **Bethshittah** represents a scene of divine judgment, where a powerful army is thrown into a state of chaos and self-inflicted defeat.
* **Victory Through Unconventional Means:** The path of flight passing by **Bethshittah** began with an act of obedience—the blowing of trumpets `{{H7782}}` by a small band of men. This reinforces the biblical theme that God's power is made perfect in weakness.
### Summary
In summary, **Bêyth hash-Shiṭṭâh** `{{H1029}}` is a place name whose biblical identity is fused with a single, powerful event. While defined simply as "house of the acacia," its context in scripture marks it as a witness to a stunning military rout caused not by human might, but by the direct and decisive intervention of God. The name is forever linked to the story of how the LORD turned an enemy's own sword `{{H2719}}` against itself, causing the entire host `{{H4264}}` to flee in panic [[Judges 7:22]].
TRV