The Hebrew term ʼÊylôwn Bêyth Chânân H358 refers to a specific location in Palestine, Elon-bethhanan. Its name is a composite phrase meaning "oak-grove of (the) house of favor." This place name is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse.
The sole biblical reference to H358 is found in a list detailing the administrative districts under King Solomon. In 1 Kings 4:9, Elon-bethhanan is mentioned as one of the places within the territory managed by "the son of Dekar." This verse situates it alongside other regional towns, including Makaz, Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, as part of a logistical and governmental record.
The context of its only appearance connects H358 to several other specific people and places:
- H1128 Ben-Deqer: Meaning "son of piercing (or of a lance)," this is the name of the Israelite, the son of Dekar, mentioned in 1 Kings 4:9.
- H1857 Deqer: Meaning "a stab," this is the name of the Israelite whose son administered the region.
- H4739 Mâqats: Meaning "end," this is the place name Makaz, listed in the same verse.
- H8169 Shaʻalbîym: Meaning "fox-holes," Shaalbim is a location in Palestine mentioned alongside Elon-bethhanan in 1 Kings 4:9.
- H1053 Bêyth Shemesh: Meaning "house of (the) sun," Beth-shemesh was a significant location in Palestine, also listed in the same administrative region.
While not carrying extensive theological weight, the significance of H358 lies in its specific function within the biblical text.
- Geographical Specificity: It serves as a precise geographical marker, grounding the biblical narrative in real-world locations and administrative structures.
- Administrative Record: Its inclusion in the list in 1 Kings 4:9 highlights its role as part of an organized Israelite kingdom, contributing to a detailed historical account.
- Descriptive Naming: The name itself, "oak-grove of (the) house of favor," demonstrates the common Hebrew practice of naming places based on natural features or expressions of hope and blessing.
In summary, ʼÊylôwn Bêyth Chânân H358 is a place name with a specific and limited role in the Old Testament. Mentioned only once, its importance is not in broad theological themes but in its contribution to the historical and geographical detail of the biblical record. It functions as a precise locator within an administrative list from the time of Solomon, anchoring the narrative in a tangible setting.
TRV