### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bêyth ʻĂnâth**, represented by `{{H1043}}`, refers to **Beth-Anath, a place in Palestine**. It is described as an orthographical variation for בֵּית עֲנוֹת. Appearing **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, it identifies a specific fortified city within the territory allocated to the tribe of Naphtali.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1043}}` is first mentioned as one of the **cities** `{{H5892}}` with their **villages** `{{H2691}}` allotted to the tribe of **Naphtali** `{{H5321}}` during the division of the land [[Joshua 19:38]]. Later, the account in Judges clarifies that Naphtali did not **drive out** `{{H3423}}` the original **Canaanites** `{{H3669}}` who were the **inhabitants** `{{H3427}}` of **Bethanath** `{{H1043}}`. Instead, the Israelites **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` among them, and the inhabitants of Bethanath were made **tributaries** `{{H4522}}` to Israel [[Judges 1:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Bethanath:
* `{{H5321}}` **Naphtâlîy** (Naphtali): This identifies the Israelite tribe to whom the **city** `{{H5892}}` of Bethanath was allotted [[Joshua 19:38]]. The tribe's actions are central to the city's story in Judges.
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash** (to occupy): This word is key to understanding the narrative, as the tribe of Naphtali failed **to occupy** or **drive out** the Canaanite inhabitants of Bethanath, leading to a state of coexistence [[Judges 1:33]].
* `{{H4522}}` **maç** (tributary): This term describes the final status of the people of Bethanath, who were subjected to a **levy** or forced labor rather than being expelled from the **land** `{{H776}}` [[Judges 1:33]].
### Theological Significance
The historical significance of `{{H1043}}` lies in its illustration of key themes from the era of the Israelite settlement.
* **Territorial Allotment:** The inclusion of Bethanath in [[Joshua 19:38]] is part of the formal record of the division of the promised **land** `{{H776}}`, marking it as a piece of Israel's inheritance.
* **Incomplete Conquest:** The account in [[Judges 1:33]] serves as a concise example of Israel's partial obedience in possessing the land, a recurring theme that shaped the nation's early history.
* **Subjugation over Expulsion:** The fact that the city's inhabitants became **tributaries** `{{H4522}}` highlights a specific outcome of the conquest, demonstrating a relationship of dominance rather than the complete removal of the previous tenants.
### Summary
In summary, **Bêyth ʻĂnâth** `{{H1043}}` is not merely a geographical name but a place whose brief biblical history is highly instructive. Identified as a **city** `{{H5892}}` within the territory of **Naphtali** `{{H5321}}`, its story encapsulates the complex realities of the Israelite settlement, from the divine allotment of land to the human failure to fully possess it, resulting in a state of subjugation rather than complete conquest.
TRV