### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bezeq**, represented by `{{H966}}`, is a place name in Palestine, derived from a word meaning **lightning**. It appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, but each instance marks a location of significant military activity for the people of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H966}}` serves as a backdrop for both conquest and mobilization. The book of Judges identifies **Bezeq** as the site where the LORD `{{H3068}}` delivered the Canaanites `{{H3669}}` and the Perizzites `{{H6522}}` into the hands of Judah `{{H3063}}`, resulting in a major victory [[Judges 1:4]]. It is specifically "in **Bezeq**" that they fought against and slew these enemies [[Judges 1:5]]. Later, in 1 Samuel, **Bezeq** is the location where Saul gathers the armies of Israel and Judah, numbering 330,000 men, for battle [[1 Samuel 11:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of the events that transpired at **Bezeq**:
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): This word for the celebrated tribe of **Judah** is central, as they were the primary actors whom the LORD empowered for victory at Bezeq [[Judges 1:4]].
* `{{H3898}}` **lâcham** (fight): This primitive root, meaning to **battle** or make war, describes the direct action taken by Judah against its enemies at Bezeq [[Judges 1:5]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (slew/smite): This word, meaning to strike or **slay**, defines the decisive outcome of the conflict, where Judah's forces slew ten thousand men in Bezek [[Judges 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H966}}` is tied to the critical events that occurred at this location.
* **A Stage for Divine Victory:** Bezeq is presented as a place where God's sovereignty in battle is undeniable. The narrative explicitly states that it was the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` who **delivered** `{{H5414}}` the Canaanites and Perizzites into Judah's hand there [[Judges 1:4]].
* **A Center for National Mobilization:** The site serves as a strategic point for gathering the nation. At Bezeq, Saul assembles a massive, unified force from both Israel and **Judah** `{{H3063}}`, highlighting its importance in moments of national crisis and collective action [[1 Samuel 11:8]].
* **Symbol of Swift Action:** The name **Bezeq** itself comes from a root word for "lightning." This meaning aligns perfectly with the swift and decisive nature of the military victory granted by God in Judges, portraying the event as a sudden flash of divine power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H966}}` is more than just a geographical location; it is a landmark of decisive action in the Old Testament. Though mentioned infrequently, **Bezeq** is consistently portrayed as a site of pivotal military events—first as the stage for a divinely orchestrated victory for Judah and later as the mustering ground for the armies of Israel. The name itself, meaning "lightning," aptly captures the character of these events, symbolizing swift judgment and the sudden consolidation of national strength under God's direction.
TRV