### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Baʻălath Bᵉʼêr**, represented by `{{H1192}}`, means **mistress of a well**. This place name appears only **1 time** in **1 verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole mention is as a geographical location within the land of Palestine, highlighting its role in defining territorial boundaries during the settlement of Canaan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1192}}` is used exclusively in the context of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. It is listed as one of the locations marking the extent of the territory allotted to the tribe of Simeon. The verse specifies that the inheritance included all the villages surrounding the named cities "to **Baalathbeer**, Ramath of the south" [[Joshua 19:8]]. This establishes it as a precise geographical point within the divine allocation of land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its significance:
* `{{H5159}}` **nachălâh** (properly, something inherited, i.e. (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom): This word frames Baalath-beer not merely as a place, but as part of a divine **heritage**. It underscores that the land was a gift from God, as seen in the promise that children are an **heritage** of the LORD [[Psalms 127:3]].
* `{{H4294}}` **maṭṭeh** (a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe): This term identifies the people group receiving the inheritance. The land including Baalath-beer was assigned to the **tribe** of Simeon, defining their specific portion within Israel [[Joshua 19:8]].
* `{{H8095}}` **Shimʻôwn** (hearing; Shimon, one of Jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him): This is the proper name of the recipient tribe. Jacob identified **Simeon** as one of his sons who would become a foundational part of Israel [[Genesis 48:5]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (a family, i.e. circle of relatives): The inheritance was given to the tribe according to their **families**, showing that the divine provision extended to the core social unit of Israelite life [[Joshua 19:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1192}}` is rooted in its role as a marker of divine faithfulness and order.
* **Covenant Fulfillment:** The specific naming of places like **Baalath-beer** serves as tangible evidence of God fulfilling His promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Jacob.
* **Divine Allotment:** Its inclusion in the list for Simeon's tribe demonstrates God's meticulous ordering of His people. The territory was not taken randomly but was assigned as a specific **inheritance** `{{H5159}}` from the Lord [[Joshua 19:8]].
* **Geographical Identity:** By defining a boundary point, **Baalath-beer** helps establish the physical identity and territory of the **tribe** `{{H4294}}` of **Simeon** `{{H8095}}` in the **south** `{{H5045}}` of the Promised Land.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1192}}` **Baʻălath Bᵉʼêr** is more than an obscure place name. Its single appearance in Scripture is significant, anchoring the fulfillment of God's covenant promises in a specific, named location. It illustrates how the grand narrative of national inheritance was realized through the detailed and orderly distribution of land to each tribe and family, solidifying the connection between God's promise, His people, and their designated place.
TRV