BETHARABAH Meaning and
Definition
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Betharabah, also known as Beth-arabah, is a geographical term of Hebrew origin that is found in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. It refers to a specific region or area situated in the southern part of ancient Palestine, within the territories of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.
The word 'Betharabah' is derived from the Hebrew terms "beth" meaning "house" or "place" and "arabah" which denotes a "desert" or "wilderness." Thus, the term can be translated to mean "house of the desert" or "place of the wilderness."
The Betharabah region is characterized by its arid and desolate nature, typically consisting of vast stretches of barren land, dry riverbeds, and rocky terrain. It is a term often used to describe the wilderness areas or uncultivated regions within the boundaries of Judah and Benjamin, located east of the Dead Sea and south of Jericho.
In the Bible, Betharabah is mentioned in various contexts, particularly in relation to significant events or places such as the entry of the Israelites into the Promised Land, the escape of the Ark of the Covenant from the Philistines, and the dwelling places of David and his men during their fugitive years from King Saul.
Overall, Betharabah is a term used to reference a specific desert region within ancient Palestine, highlighting its barren and uninhabited characteristics, and holds historical and biblical significance.
Etymology of BETHARABAH
The word "Betharabah" has its roots in Hebrew. It is a compound word, consisting of two components: "Beth" and "Arabah".
1. "Beth" (בֵּית) is a Hebrew word that means "house" or "place". It is commonly used as a prefix in Hebrew place names, indicating an inhabited or settled area.
2. "Arabah" (עֲרָבָה) is another Hebrew word that refers to a specific geographical region. It denotes an arid, desert-like plain or valley. The Arabah is a desert valley that stretches from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba in the Middle East.
Therefore, "Betharabah" can be translated as "house of the Arabah" or "place in the desert valley".
