### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Beṭen**, represented by `{{H991}}`, identifies **a place in Palestine**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. This term functions as a proper noun, a specific geographical marker for a town that was part of a tribal border during the settlement of Canaan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical reference to `{{H991}}` is found within the description of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel. In the book of Joshua, **Beten** is listed as one of the towns that constituted the boundary line for a tribal inheritance [[Joshua 19:25]]. It is mentioned as part of a list of border cities, providing a specific, historical anchor to the division of the promised land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the location and significance of Beten:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border, bound, coast): This is the direct contextual word used with Beten, defining it as part of a **border** [[Joshua 19:25]]. This term is used broadly for God setting the boundaries of nations [[Exodus 23:31]] and even of the sea [[Jeremiah 5:22]].
* `{{H2520}}` **Chelqath** (Helkath, a place in Palestine): This city is listed immediately before Beten in the same border description [[Joshua 19:25]]. It is also identified as a city given to the Levites [[Joshua 21:31]].
* `{{H2482}}` **Chălîy** (Hali, a place in Palestine): Hali is another town mentioned in the same list as Beten, contributing to the demarcation of the tribal territory [[Joshua 19:25]].
* `{{H407}}` **ʼAkshâph** (Acshaph, a place in Palestine): Also listed in the same border description as Beten [[Joshua 19:25]], Achshaph was a royal city whose king was defeated by the Israelites [[Joshua 12:20]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H991}}` itself carries no direct theological weight, its context points to larger themes:
* **Covenant Fulfillment:** The naming of specific towns like Beten in the land allotment narrative demonstrates the tangible fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to Israel. The detailed boundaries, or **gᵉbûwl** `{{H1366}}`, were a sign of God’s faithfulness [[Exodus 23:31]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The context of Beten is the establishment of a **border** `{{H1366}}`, a concept God uses to demonstrate His ultimate authority over creation, such as when He placed a **bound** for the sea [[Jeremiah 5:22]]. The earthly borders reflect a divine order.
* **Hope and Restoration:** The concept of a border is tied to the promise of security and homecoming. God promises His children that they will return to their own **border** [[Jeremiah 31:17]], linking land and divine promise.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H991}}` is a geographical name whose importance is derived entirely from its context. As a single point on a map, **Beten** serves as a piece of evidence for the historical and geographical reality of the Israelite settlement. Its inclusion in a list defining a **border** `{{H1366}}` reinforces the biblical themes of covenant, divine sovereignty over land, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.
TRV