### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew place name **Baʻal Mᵉʻôwn**, represented by `{{H1186}}`, translates to **Baal of (the) habitation (of)**. This name appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, identifying a specific city located east of the Jordan River.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, **Baalmeon** `{{H1186}}` is primarily featured in geographical and historical contexts. It is listed among the cities that the Reubenites "builded" `{{H1129}}` after settling the land, and it is noted that its name was "changed" `{{H4142}}` along with that of Nebo [[Numbers 32:38]]. It is also used to define the extent of the territory where Bela, son of Azaz, "dwelt" `{{H3427}}`, which stretched from Aroer to Nebo and **Baalmeon** [[1 Chronicles 5:8]]. In a prophecy against Moab, it is named as one of the frontier cities, part of "the glory of the country" `{{H6643}}`, that would be opened to judgment [[Ezekiel 25:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and significance of **Baʻal Mᵉʻôwn**:
* `{{H5015}}` **Nᵉbôw** (Nebo): This is the name of a mountain and a place in Moab, often mentioned alongside **Baalmeon** ([[1 Chronicles 5:8]], [[Numbers 32:38]]).
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root is used to describe the action taken by the children of Reuben upon the cities they took, including **Baalmeon** [[Numbers 32:38]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This general term is used to categorize **Baalmeon** as one of the cities of Moab [[Ezekiel 25:9]] and one of the cities built by the Reubenites [[Numbers 32:38]].
* `{{H4124}}` **Môwʼâb** (Moab): This name identifies the territory and people to whom **Baalmeon** originally belonged before being involved in Israel's history [[Ezekiel 25:9]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1186}}` is tied to its role as a geographical and prophetic marker.
* **Territorial Landmark:** The city serves to define the boundaries of inhabited land, specifically the area settled by Bela's family which extended "unto Nebo and **Baalmeon**" [[1 Chronicles 5:8]].
* **Object of Conquest and Settlement:** Its inclusion in the list of cities built by the Reubenites highlights its role in the Israelite settlement of the lands east of the Jordan [[Numbers 32:38]]. The act of changing its name suggests a transfer of authority.
* **Symbol of Moab's Glory and Judgment:** In Ezekiel's prophecy, **Baalmeon** is listed with Bethjeshimoth and Kiriathaim as representing the "glory of the country" of Moab. Its downfall is part of the prophesied judgment against the entire nation [[Ezekiel 25:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **Baʻal Mᵉʻôwn** `{{H1186}}` is a specific city east of the Jordan whose identity is shaped by its history. Originally a prominent city of Moab, it was conquered, built, and renamed by the tribe of Reuben. It functioned as a key landmark in genealogical records and later stood as a symbol of Moab's pride that was destined for judgment in divine prophecy.
TRV