בֵּית תַּפּוּחַ

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word Bêyth Tappûwach, represented by H1054, translates to house of (the) apple. It appears 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, where it is used to identify Beth-tappuah, a specific place in Palestine.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole biblical appearance of H1054 is in a list of place names. In the verse, it is recorded as Beth-tappuah, situating it alongside other locations. The passage simply lists it among a group of towns: "And Janum, and Bethtappuah, and Aphekah" Joshua 15:53.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of its only appearance links it with two other specific locations mentioned in the same list:

• H3241 Yânîym: This word means "asleep" and refers to a place in Palestine called Janum. It is listed directly before Beth-tappuah in the biblical record Joshua 15:53.
• H664 ʼĂphêqâh: Meaning "fortress," this word identifies Aphekah, another place in Palestine. It is mentioned immediately after Beth-tappuah in the same verse Joshua 15:53.

Theological Significance

The significance of H1054 is primarily geographical and descriptive.

• Place Identification: Its use in scripture serves as a precise geographical marker, helping to document the landscape of ancient Palestine.
• Descriptive Naming: The name Beth-tappuah, or "house of (the) apple," suggests a place known for its apple orchards or a general abundance of that fruit, giving insight into the area's local character.
• Biblical Record: Its inclusion in the list in Joshua 15:53 ensures its preservation as a named location within the biblical account of the land.

Summary

In summary, H1054 is a place name with a clear and descriptive meaning. While it does not feature in any biblical narratives, its single mention as Beth-tappuah in Joshua 15:53 firmly establishes it as a known location in Palestine. The name itself, "house of (the) apple," provides a vivid, albeit brief, description of the place.