The Hebrew phrase Baʻal Tâmâr, represented by H1193, identifies a specific location in Palestine. Its name literally means possessor of (the) palm-tree. The term appears only 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible, marking it as a geographically specific reference rather than a common noun.
In its single biblical appearance, Baʻal Tâmâr is the location where the men of Israel H3478 prepare for a pivotal battle. The narrative of Judges 20:33 describes how the Israelite forces rose up H6965 from their place H4725 and put themselves in array H6186 at this spot. This action was part of a larger military strategy, coordinated with an ambush by liers in wait H693 who came forth from the meadows of Gibeah H1387. Thus, Baʻal Tâmâr serves as the designated staging ground for a crucial offensive.
Several related words from its biblical context provide a clearer picture of the events at this location:
- H6186 ʻârak (to set in a row, i.e. arrange, put in order): This verb describes the primary action taken at Baʻal Tâmâr. It signifies not just lining up for battle, but a deliberate and careful preparation, as seen when God's everlasting covenant is described as ordered in all things 2 Samuel 23:5.
- H693 ʼârab (to lurk; (lie in) ambush): This word is used for the clandestine part of the battle plan mentioned in Judges 20:33. It denotes a strategy of lying in wait, a common military tactic also seen when an ambush is commanded for the city of Ai Joshua 8:2.
- H1387 Gebaʻ (a hillock; Geba, a place in Palestine): Mentioned as the location near the ambush site, Gebaʻ provides geographical context to Baʻal Tâmâr. It appears elsewhere as a significant town and landmark, marking territorial boundaries from Geba to Beersheba 2 Kings 23:8.
The significance of H1193 is derived from the actions that unfold at the location:
- A Point of Strategic Order: The importance of Baʻal Tâmâr is tied to its function as a place of military arrangement. The Israelites put themselves in array H6186 there, an act of establishing order and readiness for a decisive conflict Judges 20:33. This same word for "order" is used to describe an everlasting covenant, highlighting its connection to solemn preparation 2 Samuel 23:5.
- A Stage for Decisive Action: The site is where the men of Israel rose up H6965, a verb often associated with fulfilling a purpose or command. This action at Baʻal Tâmâr is part of a plan that will not fail, much like the counsel of the LORD, which shall stand Proverbs 19:21, and the word of God, which he shall... make... good Numbers 23:19.
In summary, H1193 Baʻal Tâmâr is a geographical name whose importance is derived entirely from its single appearance in scripture. It is remembered as the precise location where Israelite forces organized themselves for a critical battle. While the name itself carries no overt theological meaning, its context within Judges 20:33 links it to the execution of a deliberate, ordered plan, illustrating how even a minor location can become the backdrop for a significant moment in the biblical narrative.
TRV