Beersheba
Beersheba, which translates as “well of the seven” or “well of the oath,” is a city located in southern Israel. The name likely comes from the oath that Abraham made there to the Philistine King Abimelech or to the seven wells dug in the area by Isaac.
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The Naming of BeershebaTANAKH
The Naming of Beersheba
TANAKH
The name Beersheba is directly linked to the well called Shibah, highlighting the etymology and lasting significance of the city's name. The book of Genesis, the first book of the Torah, recounts the origins of mankind and the Israelites, including the naming of Beersheba.
The Multifaceted Tamarisk of BeershebaMIDRASH
The Multifaceted Tamarisk of Beersheba
MIDRASH
The tamarisk tree planted by Abraham in Beersheba is rich with symbolic meanings, representing an orchard, an inn, and a place of judgment, and it underscores Abraham's mission to spread monotheism. The classical midrash Bereshit Rabbah offers various interpretations of this act, highlighting Abraham's hospitality and his efforts to encourage others to bless God.
Isaac's Blessing in BeershebaCOMMENTARY
Isaac's Blessing in Beersheba
COMMENTARY
Isaac's divine reassurance and blessing in Beersheba highlight his faith and the peaceful resolution with Abimelech. The Tze'enah Ure'enah, a Yiddish commentary from the late 16th century, provides accessible explanations and moral lessons from the Torah.
Elijah's Flight and Divine MissionSECOND TEMPLE
Elijah's Flight and Divine Mission
SECOND TEMPLE
Elijah's flight to Beersheba is a critical moment in his prophetic mission, illustrating the intense religious conflicts in Israel. Following his defeat of the prophets of Baal, Jezebel threatens his life, prompting Elijah to flee to Beersheba, at Judah's southern edge near Edom. Josephus, the first-century Jewish historian, recounts these pivotal events in "The Antiquities of the Jews," underscoring their impact on Israel's religious direction.
Uncovering Ancient Beer-shebaCOMMENTARY
Uncovering Ancient Beer-sheba
COMMENTARY
The ancient Israelite city of Beer-sheba is hypothesized to be located under the modern city of Beersheba, specifically in the area of the Bedouin shuk, and remains unexcavated. Tamar Weissman’s research suggests that this site, believed to be a large, fortified city, was a Canaanite city destroyed and rebuilt by the Israelites.
Isaac and the Wells of BeershebaJEWISH THOUGHT
Isaac and the Wells of Beersheba
JEWISH THOUGHT
The interactions between Isaac and the Philistines in Beersheba, particularly the reopening of wells, underscore the themes of divine favor and peace. Isaac Arama's 15th-century commentary, Akeidat Yitzchak, explores the philosophical and ethical dimensions of Isaac's life, especially his negotiations with the Philistines in this pivotal location. These events reflect the broader significance of Beersheba in establishing harmonious relations amidst regional tensions.
The Symbolism of BeershebaCOMMENTARY
The Symbolism of Beersheba
COMMENTARY
The name Beersheba is rich with symbolic meaning, reflecting both the seven sheep and the oath made by Abraham and Abimelech. Radak, a renowned medieval biblical commentator, delves into the significance of the number seven in the naming of Beersheba.
