### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **Bêyth ʻÊden**, represented by `{{H1040}}`, translates to **house of pleasure**. This term, formed from words for "house" and "pleasure," designates a place in Syria named Beth-Eden. It is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse within the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1040}}` is in a prophecy of judgment found in [[Amos 1:5]]. The LORD declares that he will **break** `{{H7665}}` the bar of Damascus and **cut off** `{{H3772}}` its inhabitants. Within this decree, the ruler who "holdeth the sceptre" is explicitly targeted for removal from the **house of Eden**. The consequence of this divine action is the exile of the people of Syria, who will **go into captivity** `{{H1540}}` to Kir.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H1040}}` is illuminated by several key words used alongside it:
* `{{H5731}}` **ʻÊden** (Eden): As a component of Beth-Eden, this word refers to **Eden, the region of Adam's home**. It typically signifies a place of blessing, as when the LORD placed the man in the garden of **Eden** to care for it [[Genesis 2:15]].
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut off): This primitive root means **to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume**. In [[Amos 1:5]] it signifies the removal of the ruler, but it is also used for establishing covenants, as when the LORD **made** `{{H3772}}` a covenant with Abram [[Genesis 15:18]].
* `{{H7665}}` **shâbar** (to break): This word means **to burst (literally or figuratively); break**. It is used in [[Amos 1:5]] to describe the destruction of Damascus's defenses. Figuratively, it can describe a **broken** heart, to whom the LORD is near [[Psalms 34:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1040}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in Amos.
* **Judgment on Human Power:** The "house of pleasure" is presented as a seat of earthly authority, occupied by one holding a sceptre. Its destruction demonstrates that places of human pride and comfort are not immune to divine judgment [[Amos 1:5]].
* **Reversal of Blessing:** The name evokes **ʻÊden** `{{H5731}}`, a place of divine provision. However, in its only scriptural use, **Bêyth ʻÊden** is not a place of blessing but a target of wrath, with its leadership being **cut off** `{{H3772}}` and its people sent into captivity [[Amos 1:5]].
* **Sovereign Divine Authority:** The prophecy against the **house of Eden** is delivered by the LORD. This act of breaking down a Syrian stronghold emphasizes God's ultimate authority over all nations and their rulers, showing that no kingdom is beyond the reach of His decrees.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1040}}` **Bêyth ʻÊden** is a specific geographical term whose significance is tied to its lone appearance. While its name means "house of pleasure," its biblical role is one of profound irony. It functions as a symbol of human authority that is decisively overthrown by divine judgment. The prophecy in [[Amos 1:5]] uses this location to illustrate that God's sovereignty extends over all earthly powers, turning a place of supposed pleasure into a site of desolation.
TRV