### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ**, represented by `{{H884}}`, is the name of a place in Palestine meaning **well of an oath**. It appears 34 times across 33 unique verses in the Bible. Primarily, it is known as a significant geographical location marking the southern boundary of Israel and as a site of pivotal events in the lives of the patriarchs.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Beersheba `{{H884}}` functions as a crucial landmark. It is repeatedly used in the phrase "from Dan even to Beersheba" to describe the entire territory of Israel ([[Judges 20:1]], [[1 Samuel 3:20]], [[1 Kings 4:25]]). The name's origin is explained through two events: first when Abraham made a covenant with Abimelech and they swore an oath [[Genesis 21:31]], and later when Isaac also named a well there [[Genesis 26:33]]. The location features prominently in patriarchal stories, as a place where Abraham dwelt [[Genesis 22:19]], Jacob departed from on his journey to Haran [[Genesis 28:10]], and later offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac [[Genesis 46:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related places are often mentioned in connection with Beersheba, highlighting its geographical and spiritual context:
* `{{H1835}}` **Dân** (judge; Dan): This location in the north is frequently paired with Beersheba to denote the full northern and southern extent of the Israelite nation ([[2 Samuel 3:10]], [[2 Samuel 17:11]]).
* `{{H1008}}` **Bêyth-ʼÊl** (house of God; Beth-El): This city is mentioned by the prophet Amos, who warns Israel not to seek Bethel or pass to Beersheba, linking them as centers of corrupt worship destined for ruin [[Amos 5:5]].
* `{{H1537}}` **Gilgâl** (Gilgal): Similar to Bethel, Gilgal is condemned alongside Beersheba as a place of transgression that would face judgment and captivity [[Amos 5:5]].
* `{{H3389}}` **Yᵉrûwshâlaim** (Jerusalem): As the capital, Jerusalem is the center from which royal and religious authority extended to places like Beersheba. A proclamation was made from Beersheba to Dan for a passover in Jerusalem [[2 Chronicles 30:5]], and King Jehoshaphat went from Beersheba to bring the people back to the LORD [[2 Chronicles 19:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H884}}` is tied to its role in Israel's history and worship.
* **Covenant and Oaths:** Its very name, "well of an oath," establishes it as a place of solemn agreements. It is where Abraham made a covenant [[Genesis 21:32]] and where God's promises to the patriarchs were remembered [[Genesis 46:1]].
* **Boundary of the Promised Land:** The phrase "from Dan even to Beersheba" is more than a geographical marker; it defines the scope of the nation of Israel and the territory under the Lord's dominion. It encompassed all the people, from the northernmost tribe to the southern border at Beersheba [[1 Chronicles 21:2]].
* **Patriarchal Faithfulness:** Beersheba was a site where patriarchs like Abraham and Jacob built altars, planted groves, and called upon the name of the LORD [[Genesis 21:33]], setting a precedent for worship.
* **Spiritual Decline:** In later history, the location's significance became corrupted. The prophet Amos warned against swearing by "the manner of Beersheba," indicating it had become a center for idolatrous practice, and prophesied that those who did so would fall and never rise again [[Amos 8:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H884}}` is a location of deep historical and theological importance. From its origin as the "well of an oath" central to the patriarchs' lives and covenants, it grew to represent the southern anchor of the Israelite nation. However, its story also serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating how a place of true worship can become a site of transgression, reflecting the shifting spiritual state of the people of Israel.
TRV