The Hebrew word Bᵉʻôwr, represented by H1160, is the name of two individuals in scripture. It appears 10 times in 10 unique verses. The name's base definition is a lamp, but it is used exclusively to identify the father of an Edomitish king and, more prominently, the father of the prophet Balaam.
In the biblical narrative, H1160 serves primarily as a genealogical marker. It first appears identifying Beor as the father of Bela, who reigned in Edom from his city, Dinhabah (Genesis 36:32, 1 Chronicles 1:43). The name's most frequent use, however, is to identify Balaam the son of Beor Numbers 22:5. This Balaam was a soothsayer from Pethor of Mesopotamia whom Balak, king of Moab, hired to curse Israel (Deuteronomy 23:4, Joshua 24:9). Ultimately, Balaam the son of Beor was slain with the sword by the children of Israel (Numbers 31:8, Joshua 13:22).
Several related words provide context for the figures associated with Beor:
- H1109 Bilʻâm (Balaam): This is the name of the Mesopotamian prophet who is most frequently identified as the son of Beor H1160. His story of being hired to curse Israel is a significant event in the Pentateuch Micah 6:5.
- H1106 Belaʻ (Bela): This is the name of the Edomite king who was the son of the other Beor H1160. He was among the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over Israel Genesis 36:32.
- H1121 bên (son): This word is essential to the use of H1160, appearing in the recurring phrase "the son of Beor" to establish the lineage of both Balaam and Bela (Numbers 24:3, 1 Chronicles 1:43).
The name Beor carries significance through the actions of his sons, highlighting two distinct themes.
- Royal Lineage: As the father of Bela, king of Edom, Beor is connected to gentile monarchy that existed before Israel had a king 1 Chronicles 1:43. This establishes his name within the broader history of the region's leadership.
- Foreign Opposition: As the father of Balaam, Beor is linked to a major antagonistic figure. Balaam was hired to curse God's people but was answered by the LORD Micah 6:5. He took up his parable saying, "Balaam the son of Beor hath said" Numbers 24:15, and was ultimately judged and slain for his actions Numbers 31:8.
In summary, H1160 Bᵉʻôwr is a name known entirely through its connection to its descendants. It does not refer to a person of notable deeds but rather serves as the patriarchal identifier for two very different and significant men: Bela, an early king of Edom, and Balaam, the Mesopotamian soothsayer. The name Beor functions as a crucial anchor, placing these individuals firmly within the genealogical and historical record of the Old Testament.
TRV