### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bêyth ʻAshtârôwth**, represented by `{{H1045}}`, means **house of Ashtaroth**. It is a compound word formed from `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house) and `{{H6252}}` **ʻAshtârôwth** (Ashtaroth), and refers to a place in Palestine. This specific name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{H1045}}` is found in a narrative of defeat and desecration. In [[1 Samuel 31:10]], after a battle, the Philistines take the captured armor of their enemy and place it "in the **house of Ashtaroth**". This act signifies the dedication of the spoils of war to their goddess, attributing their victory to her power and using the enemy's armor as a trophy in her temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H1045}}` is derived from its two component parts:
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This word is used broadly to refer to a house, family, temple, or palace. It can denote the physical dwelling of the Lord, as in "the **house** of the LORD" [[Psalms 27:4]], or a lineage, as in Joshua's declaration, "as for me and my **house**, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H6252}}` **ʻAshtârôwth** (Ashtaroth): This is the name of a Sidonian deity. The worship of **Ashtaroth**, often alongside Baalim, is consistently presented as an act of forsaking the LORD by the children of Israel ([[Judges 2:13]], [[1 Samuel 12:10]]). Samuel specifically commanded the house of Israel to put away **Ashtaroth** and serve the LORD only [[1 Samuel 7:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1045}}` is concentrated in the stark contrast it presents between true and false worship.
* **A Temple of Idolatry:** The name literally identifies a physical location dedicated to the worship of a false god. This "house" stands in direct opposition to the "house of the LORD" [[Malachi 3:10]], which is the rightful place of worship and blessing.
* **Symbol of Apostasy's Consequences:** The Philistines placing armor in the **house of Ashtaroth** represents a moment of triumph for paganism over God's people [[1 Samuel 31:10]]. This event underscores the gravity of Israel's repeated sin of serving **Ashtaroth** [[Judges 10:6]], demonstrating the physical and spiritual consequences of such disobedience.
* **Conflict of Houses:** The term highlights the biblical choice between two allegiances. One can either belong to the "house of Israel" who serves the LORD [[Joshua 24:15]] or be associated with the "house of Ashtaroth," a place of idolatry condemned throughout scripture.
### Summary
In summary, **Bêyth ʻAshtârôwth** `{{H1045}}` is more than just a place name; it is a symbol of idolatry. Though mentioned only once, its meaning is amplified by its components, **bayith** (house) and **ʻAshtârôwth** (a false goddess). Its sole use in scripture marks a low point for Israel, where the armor of their leader is displayed in a pagan temple [[1 Samuel 31:10]], serving as a powerful illustration of the conflict between serving the LORD and the worship of false gods.
TRV