### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bᵉrîyth**, represented by `{{H1286}}`, refers to **Berith, a Shechemitish deity**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This singular mention identifies a specific false god worshipped in the city of Shechem, providing a clear instance of idolatry within a key location in Israel's history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H1286}}` is in the book of Judges. The narrative describes a moment of crisis where the leaders of a specific faction sought sanctuary. According to the text, "when all the men of the tower of Shechem heard that, they entered into an hold of the house of the god **Berith**" [[Judges 9:46]]. This verse firmly establishes **Berith** as a deity with a dedicated place of worship, a "house," which served as a place of refuge for his followers.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the setting and nature of this deity:
* `{{H7927}}` **Shᵉkem** (ridge; Shekem, a place in Palestine): This word identifies the specific location of the cult of Berith. Shechem was a historically significant city where God's covenants were affirmed [[Joshua 24:25]], making the presence of this idol particularly notable.
* `{{H410}}` **ʼêl** (strength... God (god), [idiom] great, idol): This term is used to classify **Berith** as a "god." While often used for the one true God [[Isaiah 9:6]], it can also refer to any deity or even an idol, which is its function in the context of `{{H1286}}`.
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house... family... temple): This indicates that the deity Berith had a dedicated temple or "house." This same word is used for the house of the LORD [[Psalms 27:4]], highlighting the direct parallel and conflict between true and false worship.
* `{{H6877}}` **tsᵉrîyach** (a citadel; high place, hold): This specifies the part of Berith's temple the men fled to—a "hold" or fortified place. This detail underscores their desperation and their belief in the deity's power to protect them.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1286}}` is found in its representation of religious apostasy and its consequences.
* **Idolatry in a Sacred City:** The worship of **Berith** in **Shechem** `{{H7927}}` demonstrates the persistent problem of idolatry. This city was not a foreign land but a place where Israel had committed to serve the LORD alone [[Joshua 24:25]], making this act a direct violation of their covenant.
* **A False Refuge:** The men of Shechem sought protection in the "house of the god Berith" [[Judges 9:46]]. However, the surrounding narrative shows this refuge was futile, as the hold was set on fire, leading to their deaths [[Judges 9:49]]. This serves as a powerful illustration of the inability of false gods to save.
* **Counterfeit of True Worship:** The existence of a "house" `{{H1004}}` for a "god" `{{H410}}` named **Berith** mimics the legitimate worship of the God of Israel. The name itself is the same as the Hebrew word for covenant, suggesting this deity was a counterfeit, representing a false covenant in opposition to the LORD's.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1286}}` is more than just the name of an obscure idol. Its single appearance provides a concise but potent example of the spiritual conflicts detailed in the book of Judges. The worship of **Berith** in Shechem represents a direct challenge to God's authority in a covenant city and serves as a sobering reminder of the ultimate failure of false idols to provide true security.
TRV