### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼÂbêl**, represented by `{{H59}}`, primarily denotes a **meadow** and is used as the name for two places in Palestine. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, marking it as a specific, though infrequent, geographical reference in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{H59}}` is presented in several distinct contexts. In 1 Samuel, it is associated with a monument-like "great stone of **Abel**," which marked the place where the Philistines set down the ark of the LORD [[1 Samuel 6:18]]. Later, in 2 Samuel, it is identified as a fortified city, referred to as "**Abel** of Bethmaachah," which was besieged by the forces of Joab [[2 Samuel 20:15]]. This same location was also known as a place of great wisdom, as highlighted by the old saying, "They shall surely ask counsel at **Abel**: and so they ended the matter" [[2 Samuel 20:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the identity and nature of Abel in the biblical accounts:
* `{{H1038}}` **Bêyth Maʻăkâh** (house of Maakah): This term is directly joined with Abel in the phrase "**Abel** of Bethmaachah" [[2 Samuel 20:15]], identifying the specific city being referenced.
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city): Abel is explicitly described as a **city** that was besieged by Joab's army, indicating it was a settled and likely fortified location [[2 Samuel 20:15]].
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall of protection): During the siege of Abel, the narrative mentions that Joab's people battered the **wall** to throw it down, confirming its status as a protected stronghold [[2 Samuel 20:15]].
* `{{H727}}` **ʼârôwn** (a box; ark, chest, coffin): The great stone of Abel is significant because it is the place where the Philistines set down the **ark** of the LORD, connecting the location to a pivotal moment involving Israel's most sacred object [[1 Samuel 6:18]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H59}}` is tied to its role as a setting for critical events.
* **A Site of Resolution:** The old saying recorded in [[2 Samuel 20:18]] suggests Abel was renowned as a place where counsel was sought to resolve disputes. This reputation for wisdom points to its role as a center for finishing matters definitively.
* **A Marker of Divine Interaction:** The "great stone of **Abel**" serves as a physical witness to the return of the ark of the LORD from the Philistines, marking a key event in the relationship between Israel and its neighbors [[1 Samuel 6:18]].
* **A Strategic Stronghold:** The siege of Abel of Bethmaachah demonstrates its importance as a fortified **city**. The military campaign directed against it by **Joab** `{{H3097}}` highlights its strategic value within the tribes of Israel [[2 Samuel 20:14-15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H59}}` identifies specific locations in Palestine that, while mentioned only a few times, are central to important biblical events. From a meadow with a monumental stone witnessing the return of the ark to a walled city known for both its wisdom and its strategic role in conflict, **ʼÂbêl** serves as a backdrop for moments of divine action, military confrontation, and sagely counsel.
TRV