Baal ( 1 ) 1. A Reubenite, whose son or descendant Beerah was carried of by the invading arm of Assyria under Tiglath-Pileser ( 1 Chronicles 5:5) 2. The son of Jehiel, father or founder of Gibeon by his wife Maachah; brother of Kish, and grandfather of Saul ( 1 Chronicles 8:30; 9:36). Baal ( 2 ) (“sun” or “lord” ), the supreme male divinity of the Phoenician and Canaanite nations, was their supreme female divinity. There can be no doubt of the very high antiquity of the worship of Baal. We find it established among the Moabites and their allies the Midianites in the time of Moses ( Numbers 22:41), and through these nations the Israelites were seduced to the worship of this god under the particular form of Baal-peor ( Numbers 25:3-18; Deuteronomy 4:3). In the times of the kings the worship of Baal spread greatly, and together with that of Asherah became the religion of the court and people of the ten tribes ( 1 Kings 16:31-33; 18:18,22). And though this idolatry was occasionally put down ( <120301> Kings 3:2; 10:28), it appears never to have been permanently abolished among them ( 2 Kings 17:16). In the kingdom of Judah also Baalworship extensively prevailed. The worship of Baal among the Jews seems to have been appointed with much pomp and ceremonial. Temples were erected to him ( 1 Kings 16:32; 2 Kings 11:18); his images were set up ( 2 Kings 10:26); his altars were very numerous ( Jeremiah 11:13), were erected particularly on lofty eminences ( 1 Kings 18:20), and on the roofs of houses ( Jeremiah 32:29); there were priests in great numbers ( 1 Kings 18:19), and of various classes ( 2 Kings 10:19); the worshippers appear to have been arrayed in appropriate robes ( Kings 10:22); the worship was performed by burning incense ( Jeremiah 7:9) and offering burnt sacrifices, which occasionally consisted of human victims ( Jeremiah 19:5). The officiating priests danced with frantic shouts around the altar, and cut themselves with knives to excite the attention and compassion of the god ( 1 Kings 18:26-28). Throughout all the Phoenician colonies we continually find traces of the worship of this god; nor need we hesitate to regard the Babylonian Bel ( Isaiah 46:1) or Belus as essentially identical with Baal, though perhaps under some modified form. Among the compounds of Baal which appear in the Old Testament are: 1. ( Judges 8:33; 9:4). The name signifies the Covenant-Baal, the god who comes into covenant with the worshippers. 2. worshipped at Ekron ( 2 Kings 1:2,3,16). The meaning of the name is Baal or Lord of the fly. The name occurs in the New Testament in the well-known form . 3. 1. The name of one of the early kings of Edom ( Genesis 36:38,39; 1 Chronicles 1:49-50). 2. The name of one of David’s officers, who had the superintendence of his olive and sycamore plantations ( 1 Chronicles 27:28). 4. We have already referred to the worship of this god. Baal ( 3 ) geographical. The word occurs as the prefix or suffix to the names of several places in Palestine, as follows: 1. Simeon ( 1 Chronicles 4:33). Baalath Beer. 2. Kirjath Jearim, Judah,7 miles West of Jerusalem ( Joshua 15:9). 3. Town of the same name in Dan ( Joshua 19:44). 4. (“Baal of the well, or holy well”), south Judah, and given to Simeon. Other sacred wells in this region were called Beer-lahairoi (“of the vision of God”), and Beersheba (“of the oath”). 5. (“fortune”). The most northern point of Joshua’s victories ( Joshua 11:17; 12:7). Supposed to have been a Phoenician sanctuary. Robinson thought it the same as Banias, which has been a sanctuary of the god Pan from a remote age. 6. (“of multitude”). Where Solomon had a vineyard ( Song of Solomon 8:11). May have been not far north of Samaria (Judith 8:3). 7. (“village”). Where Absalom had a sheep-farm, and where Amnon was murdered ( 2 Samuel 13:23). 8. . Mount Hemon. 9. . . ( 1 Chronicles 5:8). 9 miles from Heshbon, near the mountain of the hot springs, and reputed to be the native place of Elisha. 10. (“destructions”). Scene of David’s victory over the Philistines ( 2 Samuel 5:20; 1 Chronicles 14:11). 11. (“third idol”). Not far from Gilgal, Sharon ( 2 Kings 4:42). 12. (“of the palm”). Benjamin, near Gibeah ( Judges 20:33). The palm-tree of Deborah is supposed to be meant by some. Lost. 13. . Near the crossing-place of the Red Sea in the Exodus. Lost.

Baalah Baalath .

Baale of Judah. .

Baalim .

Baalis King of the Bene-Ammon ( Jeremiah 40:14).

Baana Son of Ahilud ( 1 Kings 4:12).

Baanah 1. Son of Rimmon (2 Samuel 4). 2. Fathers of Heleb ( 2 Samuel 23:29). 3. Correctly Baana, Son of the Cushai ( 1 Kings 4:16). 4. Returned with Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:2).

Baara Wife of Shaharaim.

Baaseiah A Gershonite, ancestor of Asaph ( 1 Chronicles 6:40).

Baasha (“bad” ) The first king of the second line which reigned over the ten tribes. He was an idolater — worshiped the calves, and compelled the people to break off contact with Jerusalem.

Baalbek (“city of the sun” ) ( Joshua 11:17; 12:7), in Coele-Syria, the valley of Lebanon, under Mount Hermon. The ruins are the most important and remarkable in the whole country; the site pleasantly located on the lowest slopes of Anti-Lebanon, at the opening of a small valley into the plain El Bukaa. A small stream, divided into many rills for irrigation, waters the fertile soil. The city was not regular in plan, and heaps of ruins scattered over a space of two miles indicate its size. The chief attractions are the three temples. 1. The Great Temple, whose ruins are very grand and picturesque, but seems to have been left unfinished. The Great Gate is ornamented with every device that could be used in the most florid Corinthian style. Ears of grain, vineleaves and grapes, with little figures of genii, or elves half-hidden among them, and many choice touches of scroll-work, attract the eye and gratify the taste. Only 6 columns of the peristyle of this temple are now standing (75 feet high, 7 feet thick, the pediment 120 feet above the ground), besides two courts and a portico. These are on an artificial platform, which is elevated 30 feet, and has vaults underneath. The three great stones forming a part of the wall of this platform measure (1) 64 feet, (2) 63 feet 8 inches, (3) 63 feet thickness, 13 feet. The large stone left in the quarry is 69 feet long, 17 feet wide, and 14 feet thick. 2. The Octagon Temple is Ionic and Corinthian in style, circular inside and outside, having niches which are seen each between two columns. Carved wreaths ornament the space above each. This has been used as a Christian church, but is now ruinous. 3. The Temple of the Sun, also Corinthian, is the most beautiful work there. The great work of Wood and Dawkins contains drawings and plans of every object of interest at Baalbek, and also at Palmyra.

Baasha (“lays waste” ) Son of Ahijah, 3rd king of Israel, for 25 years. B.C. 953 to 930. Babel, Babylon (“gate of God” ) Capital of the Plain of Shinar ( Genesis 10:10). Built B.C. ( Genesis 10:25), on both sides of the river Euphrates: a vast square, miles in circuit. About 5 miles above Hillah, on the East bank of the river, are a great many artificial mounds of enormous size, in three groups: 1. Babil, or Mujellibe (overturned), a high pile of unbaked bricks; 2. The palace or Kasr; and 3. The mound on which the modern tomb of Amram ibn Ali stands. In a line with the Amram mound, on both sides of the river, are the ruins of a great palace, the bricks of which bear the name of Nergal-Sharezer (Neriglissar), who was the chief magician (Rab-mag) and officer of Nebuchadnezzar ( Jeremiah 39:3). Similar mounds, but smaller, are scattered over the country on both sides of the river, one of which, 6 miles Southwest of Hillah is called Bits Nimrud, which some say is the tower of Babel. Inscriptions found here, of the date of Nebuchadnezzar, mark the site of Borsippa, outside of Babylon. A broad and deep moat, kept full of water, surrounded one wall of the ancient city, outside of which was another wall 200 royal cubits high and 50 thick. (Pliny says 200, Strabo 75, and Rawlinson 60 to 70 feet). Scarcely a trace of these walls can be found now, except it may be a few mounds which are supposed to mark the sites of some of the gates, Ctesias says there were 250 towers on the walls. The houses were generally built of bricks made of the river mud, sun-dried, or burned in kilns, cemented with bitumen, and were three and four stories high. The streets were straight, and crossed each other at right angles, the cross streets having gates of bronze at the river. Ctesias mentions a bridge of stone 3,000 feet long and 30 feet wide, connecting two palaces on opposite sides of the river. There were 3 walls around the royal palace on the Eastern side, the second or middle wall being 300 feet high and the towers 420 feet, and 4 1/2 miles in circuit, made of colored brick, representing hunting scenes, with figures of Ninus and Semiramis. A tunnel under the river also connected the two palaces ( Jeremiah 51:53,58; Jeremiah 50:15). There were a hundred gates of bronze with posts and lintels of the same. The banks of the river had quays, whose ruins still exist, and on the bricks was written in arrow-head characters the name of the last king. The most imposing ruin examined by Layard is called Birs Nimrud, and was found to be in seven stories, with a chamber on the top, each story smaller, forming an oblique pyramid with a square base. It was called the Temple of the Seven Spheres, and is not the Tower of Babel of the Scriptures, which is not yet identified. The stories were colored, and were, beginning at the lower — 1st, 272 feet square, 26 feet high, colored black; 2nd, 230 sq. h., orange; 3rd, 188 sq. 26 h., red; 4th, 146 sq. 15 h., golden color;, sq. 15 h., yellow; 6th, 62 sq. 15 h., blue; 7th, 20 sq. 15 h., silver color; and the ark nearly covering the entire upper platform and 15 feet high, color not given: making, in all, 153 feet above the platform, which was three feet above the plain. The empire lasted 1,300 years ( Jeremiah 25:12,14). It is now a desolation, the great city has become heaps ( Jeremiah 51:37), the land a wilderness for wild beasts, and even the Arabs refuse to pitch the tent, and the shepherd to keep sheep there ( Isaiah 13:19-22).

Babi (1 Esdras 8:37 ). Baca (“weeping” ) The valley ( Psalm 84:6). Located in Hinnom ( 2 Samuel 5:23). A valley of the same name is now found in Sinai. (Burck.).

Bacchides (“son of Bacchus” ) Friend of Antiochus Epiphanes, and governor of Mesopotamia; after Judas Maccabaeus fell he re-established the power of the Syrian faction in Judaea. B.C. 161-158.

Bacchurus A holy singer who married a foreign wife (1 Esdras 9:24).

Bacchus Greek Dionysus. (2 Macc. 6:7; 14:33). A god of special abhorence to the Jews. He was the god of wine, and of general festivity and jollity, and his rites sanctioned the most frantic excesses of revelry and excitement. Nicanor threatened to build a temple to Bacchus on the site of the temple of Solomon.

Bacenor Captain under Judas Maccabaeus (2 Macc. 12:35).

Bachrites Family of Becher, son of Ephraim.

Badger (Hebrew: Tachash ). The antelope. Tachaitze of Eastern Africa, bluish slaty-gray in color. Sculptured in Egypt.

Bago .

Bagoas (Judith 12:11).

Bagoi (1 Esdras 5:14 ). Bigval.

Baharumite, The .

Bahurim (“young men’s village” ) Near the Jerusalem-Jericho road; where in the Wady Ruwaby, there are some ruins. Balaam (“stranger” ) Son of Beor, and a prophet ( Numbers 22:5). This strange man worshiped Jehovah, and at the same time knew and practiced the forbidden arts of divination. His prophesies are distinguished for dignity, compression, vividness, and fullness of imagery: there is scarcely any work equal to them in the later prophets ( Revelation 2:14).

Balac ( Revelation 2:14 ). .

Baladan .

Balah ( Joshua 19:3 ). . Balak (“empty” ) Son of Zippor, king of Moab, who hired Balaam to curse the Israelites ( Numbers 22:24).

Balamo (Judith 8:3).

Balasamus (1 Esdras 9:43 ).

Baldness is natural and artificial. The artificial is caused by shaving the head, in token of mourning for the dead ( Jeremiah 16:6), which Moses forbade to the Jews because it was a pagan custom. Baldness was ridiculed ( Kings 2:23), perhaps on suspicion of leprosy. A bald man was declared unfit for the priestly office ( Leviticus 21:20).

Balm Balnuus (Esdras 9:31 ). Balthasar (Baruch 1:11-12 ). .

Bamah (“High place” ) ( Ezekiel 20:29 ). Jehovah gave this name to every place of idolatrous worship.

Bamoth Station in the Exodus ( Numbers 21:19.)

Bamoth-Baal . High place in Moab ( Joshua 13:17).

Ban (1 Esdras 5:37 ). .

Banaias (1 Esdras 9:35 ). .

Bani 1. Gadite; one of David’s 30 ( 2 Samuel 23:36). 2. A Levite ( 1 Chronicles 6:46). 3. Father of Imri ( 1 Chronicles 9:4). 4. Children of Bani, returned with Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:10 5. An Israelite — son of Bani ( Ezra 10:38). 6. A Levite ( Nehemiah 3:17). 7. A Levite ( Nehemiah 8:7). 8. Another Levite ( Nehemiah 9:4). 9. Levite — son of Asaph ( Nehemiah 11:22).

Banid (1 Esdras 8:36 ). Lost out of Ezra 8:10.

Bannaia (1 Esdras 9:33 ). in Ezra Bannus (1 Esdras 9:34 ). or .

Banquet Entertainment furnished at the expense of one man; usually toward the close of the day, between 5 and 6, and called supper. On grand occasions the invitations were given out some days before, and on the day appointed a servant was sent to announce that the time had arrived, and the guest was expected ( Matthew 22:8; Luke 14:17). After accepting the invitation, to neglect to attend was no less than an insult. When all who had been invited had arrived the master of the house shut the door ( Luke 13:24). The first act of welcome was washing the feet and anointing the hair with perfumed oil; and among the wealthy, on great days, a handsome cloak was furnished to each guest, to be worn during the festivity (Ecc. 9:8; Revelation 3:4).

Banuas Returned from captivity (1 Esdras 5:26). Baptism Washing before prayer or sacrifice was a custom among all ancient nations, as a sign of spiritual purity, in the physical cleanness, and baptism was instituted as an initiatory rite of his religion by the Lord Jesus Christ. To be baptized for Moses ( 1 Corinthians 10:2) means to become subject to the law of Moses; to be baptized for Christ, shows an intention to become a true follower of Christ. John baptized with water unto repentance — not causing repentance but as a sign of it. Perhaps only a sign of their willingness to enroll themselves among John’s followers. Jesus himself did not baptize with water, but with the Spirit, and Christian baptism was only instituted after the resurrection, when the Lord gave the commission to his apostles “to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” There are different views of Baptism. 1. That it is a direct instrument of grace, when applied by a properly qualified person; infusing into the soul positive moral goodness; or, as some believe, giving only the capacity to receive goodness, which if rightly used will lead to salvation; while others again see that the good will only be enjoyed by those who are predestined to salvation. 2. It is a seal of grace, divine blessings being thereby confirmed to the soul. 3. Some hold that it is only a sign of initiation into church membership. 4. Or a token of regeneration, to be received only by those who give evidence of being really regenerated. 5. A symbol of purification. The mode of baptism differs; and there is practiced immersion and affusion or sprinkling. The Marcionites, and the Gnostics baptized the dead ( 1 Corinthians 15:29), by proxy, someone answering for the dead, while the water was applied to the dead body; and parents were baptized for their children, from a mistaken reading of the words of Paul. He meant “If the dead rise not at all, what benefit do they expect who baptize vicariously for the dead?” Barabbas (son of Abba ). One who had forfeited his life for sedition and murder ( Mark 15:7). The Armenian Version reads “Whom will ye that I shall deliver unto you, Jesus Barabbas, or Jesus that is called Christ?”

Barachel Father of Elihu, a Buzite ( Job 32:2-6).

Barachias ( Matthew 23:25 ). . Barak (“lightning” ) Son of Abinoam of Kedesh, Naphtah ( Judges 4:6). Summoned by Deborah to fight against Jabin and Sisera. Barbarian Any nation but the Greek, was the Greek definition. The term meant to the Greeks what Gentile did to the Jews — any people but Jews. The Egyptians had a similar term; and the oriental nations all had, and have now some term for distinction between their own and other people.

Barhumite . .

Bariah Son of Shemaiah, of Judah ( 1 Chronicles 3:22).

Bar-Jesus .

Bar-Jona .

Barkos A Nethinim returned with Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:53). Barley Used, by the poor only, for bread, mixing, it with wheat, beans, lentils, millet, etc., and as fodder for horses ( Judges 7:13; 2 Kings 4:42; Ezra 4:9; 1 Kings 4:28). The barley harvest is in March and April, earlier than the wheat harvest by three weeks. Barley bread is a sign of poverty, and is little esteemed (Ezra 13:19). Its value was one-third that of wheat ( Revelation 6:6). Barn Ten different Hebrew and Greek words are translated barn. Barns, as we know them, for storing hay, grain, etc., are unknown in the East. Rooms, or pits (granaries) are often made underground or cut into the solid rock. It is the custom to keep animals, produce, grain, and all kinds of goods, in the lower story of the dwelling. Poor people often sleep in the same room with their cattle. Barnabas (“exhorter” ) Joses, a Levite of Cyprus, an early disciple and companion of Paul, was called Barnabas — son of eloquence — because of his ready oratory (Acts. 4:36). He was the first to recognize Paul’s sincerity, and introduce him to the church in Jerusalem ( Acts 9:27). Being honored with the mission to Antioch, he sought for Saul (Paul) in Tarsus as a helper, and they worked together a year. Barnabas’ sister’s son, Mark, was the Evangelist. He is not counted as an apostle (see ), although Luke so speaks of him in Acts 14:14; and they were equally honored by the church until after the quarrel and separation of Barnabas from Saul. After that Barnabas is lost sight of. The Epistle called by his name is believed to be spurious, because it has in it errors in the Jewish history and worship, and very feeble grasp of divine truth, unworthy of a Levite and a disciple. It is assigned to the 2nd century A.D. by Alford.

Barodis Servant of Solomon, returned with Zerubbabel (1 Esdras 5:34).

Barsabas and .

Bartacus Father of Apame. “The admirable” was probably an official title belonging to his rank (1 Esdras 4:29). Bartholomew (“son of Talman” ) One of the Twelve. The same as Nathanael. Born at Cana. Philip had some difficulty in bringing him to regard Jesus as the Christ. He was one of the to whom Jesus appeared after the resurrection at the lake of Tiberias, and a witness of the ascension. Tradition only gives any account of him after that time, when he is supposed to have gone as a preacher into “the East” (India). A spurious gospel bears his name.

Bartimeus (“son, of Timai” ), a blind beggar of Jericho ( Mark 10:46). Baruch (“blessed” ) 1. Friend and amanuensis of Jeremiah ( Jeremiah 32:12). . 2. Son of Zabbai ( Nehemiah 3:20). 3. Son of Col-hozeh ( Nehemiah 11:5).

Barzillai 1. A wealthy Gileadite who was hospitable to David when he fled from Absalom ( 2 Samuel 17:27); but declined David’s invitation to reside at court, because of his great age. 2. Whose son married Saul’s daughter Michal.

Basaloth (1 Esdras 5:31).

Bascama Gilead, where Tryphon killed Jonathan Maccabeus, whose bones were afterward removed to Modin by Simon (1 Macc. 13:23-25). Lost. Bashan (“soft, rich soil, or basalt soil” ) Land of Bashan. East of the Jordan River, North of Jabbok; from the border of Gilead to Hermon, and from the Jordan River to Salcah ( Joshua 12:4,5; Deuteronomy 3:10-14). At Edrei, Og, king of Bashan, was defeated, and the land given to the half-tribe of Manasseh, with half of Gilead. It was famous for its oaks ( Isaiah 2:13; Zechariah 11:12), and cattle; and now the granary of Damascus. Modern travelers speak of its delightful forests, of its flocks and herds, and grain fields. with its 60 cities, was in Bashan. Bashan-Havoth-Jair Name given to Argob after its conquest by Jair ( Deuteronomy 3:14.) Bashemath (“fragrant” ) 1. Daughter of Ishmael, Esau’s 3rd wife ( Genesis 36:3). ( Genesis 28:9). 2. Daughter of Elon the Hittite, and wife of Esau ( Genesis 26:34).

Basin The translation of four Hebrew words, and one Greek word. The forms of some kinds have been preserved on the monuments, and are given in the article . Basket Five Hebrew words are translated basket. The form of the bread-basket is shown in the picture. (See the book). They were made of grass, or willow twigs.

Basmath Daughter of Solomon ( 1 Kings 4:4), wife of Ahimaaz, one of the king’s officers.

Bassa (1 Esdras 5:16).

Bastai (1 Esdras 5:31). Bastard (Hebrew: mamzer ). A child born to those who marry within the limited degrees of relationship, as two of the same family; or a Jew and a Gentile.

Bat Among the animals forbidden to be eaten ( Leviticus 11:20). The special habitation of bats, in the dark recesses of rocky caves, and their nocturnal habits, give great force to the prophesy that the idols shall be cast to the bats and the moles. Baruch shows (among other images) that the idols are no gods because bats sit on their heads, with birds and cats.

Bathing . In Palestine, Syria and Egypt, bathing is a luxury as well as a necessity, and is now a religious ceremony, as in ancient times.

Bath-Rabbim Gate of the ancient city of Heshbon. The two pools were near this gate; were likened to the eyes of Shelomith’s beloved ( Song of Solomon 7:4). Bathsheba (“promised — sworn” ) A daughter of Eliam, wife of Uriah, and grand-daughter of Ahitophel, the statesman. Mother of Solomon. There are recorded instances of her vigorous understanding and kindness of heart.

Bathshua Daughter of the oath.

Bath Zacharias (“house of Zachariah” ) Now Beit Sakarieh. 8 miles North of Beit Sur.

Bavai Ruler of Keilah ( Nehemiah 3:13).

Bay-tree A native — not an exotic ( Psalm 37:35). Grows near Antioch.

Bazlith (“stripping” ) “Children of Bazlith” returned with Zerubbabel ( Nehemiah 7:54).

Bdellium The gum of a tree that grew in the land of India and Arabia — used in sacrifice and as a perfume and flavor for wine. The word may mean pearls ( Genesis 2:12; Numbers 11:7).

Bealiah A Benjamite who went over to David at Ziklag ( 1 Chronicles 12:5).

Bealoth A town in the extreme South of Judah ( Joshua 15:24).

Bean, Children of (1 Macc. 5:4), probably Bedouins.

Beans A native of Palestine, Syria and Asia Minor. ( 2 Samuel 17:28).

Blossoms from January to March. Planted in November; gathered in February. Both the green pod and ripe beans boiled with oil and garlic, are commonly used by persons of all classes. There are several kinds some of which are fed to horses.

Bear The Hebrew name (dob ) is still in use for the bear in the East, which is found on Mount Hermon, Mount Lebanon, and other parts of the country; and naturalists have shown that it is a species that is unique to Syria.

Beard The beard in the East is a badge of manhood and a mark of freedom. The Egyptians shaved it off and wore a false beard of plaited hair, in style and length to suit their rank. The Hebrews were distinct from both their Egyptian and Assyrian neighbors, as may be shown on the monuments, where captives are drawn in their proper costume and feature. It was a shame to lose the hair or beard ( Isaiah 50:6), and also a sign of mourning. It was carefully dressed and oiled (Psalm 133), and a full, long beard was, and is, a highly coveted ornament.

Bebai 1. 1,623 sons of Bebai returned with Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:11); 28 more with Ezra; 4 took foreign wives ( Ezra 10:28). 2. Father of Zechariah. 3. Bebai — Chobai ( Judges 15:4).

Becher (“firstborn — young camel” ) 1. Second son of Benjamin ( Genesis 46:21). 2. Son of Ephraim ( Numbers 26:35).

Bechorath Son of Aphiah — grandson of Beeher ( 1 Samuel 9:1.)

Bectileth, The Plain of (“house of slaughter” ) between Nineveh and Cilicia ( Judges 2:2). Bactiali was a plain 21 miles from Antioch. (Peutinger tables). Bed 1. A mat of grass, reeds, straw, hemp, or one or more cloths. 2. A quilt or mattress, filled with cotton, wool, grass, or straw. The pillow for the head is a frame of wood, a stone, or a stuffed bag, or sheep-skin. The bed was laid on the divan (pratform 6 to 8 feet wide, and 8 to inches high, on one or more sides of a room). Bedsteads, or movable frames ( 1 Samuel 19:15; coffin, 2 Samuel 3:31), were used, perhaps, only, by the wealthy. Some were made of palm-sticks, and others of iron ( Deuteronomy 3:11). Sculptures in Asia Minor show many elegant shapes of bedsteads, and couches. The canopy (Judith 16:23) was, and is still used in the East, for display, and for protection against light, dust and insects ( Esther 1:6; Psalm 7:16). The people seldom or never change their dress on going to bed; only taking off the outer garment (see ), excepting in hot weather.

Bedad (“separation, part” ) Father of Hadad, king of Edom ( 1 Chronicles 1:46).

Bedan (“son of Dan — servile” ) judge of Israel ( 1 Samuel 12:11).

Bedeiah Son of Beni ( Ezra 10:35).

Bee (deborah ). Palestine abounded in bees, for it was a land “flowing with milk and honey” ( Deuteronomy 32:13). The banded bee of Palestine is not found in this country. So plentiful was wild honey that it was exported. It was eaten mixed with butter. There is a vegetable substance called honey which is a thick juice of grapes.

Beeliada (“known by Baal” ) Son of David; born in Jerusalem ( 1 Chronicles 14:7).

Beelsarus (1 Esdras 5:8).

Beeltethmus (“chancellor” ) Officer of Artaxerxes in Palestine (1 Esdras 2:16-25). Beelzebub (“fly-god” ) (“lord of dirt”) “House-god”, and “dung-god”, by some. A belief that demons possessed persons, led to a belief in a prince of demons, who was supposed to rule over them.

Beer ( 1 ) 1. One of the latest halting-places of the Israelites, lying beyond the Arnon, and so called because of the well which was there dug by the “princes” and “nobles” of the people, and is perpetuated in a fragment of poetry ( Numbers 21:16-18). This is possibly the referred to in Isaiah 15:8. 2. A place to which Jotham the son of Gideon fled for fear of his brother Abimelech ( Judges 9:21).

Beer ( 2 ) (“well” ) 1. A well dug by the “princes” beyond Arnon, near one of the last stations of the Exode, and celebrated in poetry ( Numbers 21:16,18). 2. Jotham, son of Gideon, fled to this place ( Judges 9:21). Site lost.

Bee-ra (“well” ) Son of Zophah ( 1 Chronicles 7:37).

Beer-ah (“well” ) Prince of the Reubenites ( 1 Chronicles 5:6.)

Beer-elim (“well of heroes” ) ( Isaiah 15:8).

Beer-i 1. The father of Judith, one of the wives of Esau ( Genesis 26:34). 2. Father of the prophet Hosea ( Hosea 1:1).

Beer-Lahai-Roi a well, or rather a living spring (KJV: “fountain”, compare Jeremiah 6:7), between Kadesh and Bered, in the wilderness, “in the way to Shur,” and therefore in the “south country” ( Genesis 24:62), which, according to the explanation of the text, was so named by Hagar, because God saw her there ( Genesis 16:14). By this well Isaac dwelt both before and after the death of his father ( Genesis 24:62; 25:11). In both these passages the name is given in the KJV as “the well Lahai-roi.” Mr. Rowland announces the discovery of the well Lahai-roi at Moyle or Moilahi, a station on the road to Beersheba,10 hours south of Ruheibeh; near which is a hole or cavern bearing the name of Beit Hagar (Ritter, Sinai, 1086, 7); but this requires confirmation.

Beeroth (“wells” ) One of the 4 cities of the Hivites; the other 3 being Gibeon, Chephirah, and Kirjath Jearim ( Joshua 9:17; 18:25,26,28). Ten miles North of Jerusalem, on the Shechem road, the customary resting-place of travelers (Rob). — Bene Jaakan. Edom, a station ( Deuteronomy 10:6). Beersheba (“well of swearing or well of seven” ) South border of Judah. Dug by Abraham ( Genesis 21:31). The compact of Abraham and Abimelech was ratified by setting apart 7 ewe-lambs (sheba , seven). Isaac’s servants also “digged” a well ( Genesis 26:32). Two principal wells and five smaller ones are on the North bank of Wady Seba on the edge of the desert. One is 12 1/2 feet diameter, 44 1/2 feet to the water (Rob., Apr. 12). The other is 5 feet diameter and 42 feet to the water. Watering-troughs of stone lie around the wells, and among the grass are crocuses and lilies. The 5 lesser wells are at some distance from the larger. The ruins of a town are on the hills North of the wells. It is very frequently mentioned as one of the boundaries of all Israel: From Dan to Beer-sheba. The Arab name is Bir es Seba, “Well of the Lion”.

Beeshterah ( Joshua 21:27). Beetle Beeves ; Beggar ; .

Begotten Jesus Christ, the Son of God ( John 1:14,18; Revelation 1:5).

Beheading Behemoth There can be little or no doubt that by this word ( Job 40:15-24) the hippopotamus is intended, since all the details descriptive of the behemoth accord entirely with the ascertained habits of that animal. Since in the first part of Jehovah’s discourse (Job 38—39) land animals and birds are mentioned, it suits the general purpose of that discourse better to suppose that aquatic or amphibious creatures are spoken of in the last half of it; and since the leviathan, by almost universal consent, denotes the crocodile, the behemoth seems clearly to point to the hippopotamus, his associate in the Nile. The description of the animal’s lying under “the shady tree” among the “reeds” and willows is peculiarly appropriate.

Bekah (“part-half” ) .

Belemus (1 Esdras 2:16 ). Bel The national god of the Babylonians ( Isaiah 46:1; Jeremiah 1:2). Zeus Bel is the male, and Hera the female, of the same deity. Writers are divided as to whether Bel (Baal) was the sun or the planet Jupiter: if the sun, then Ashtoreth was the moon-goddess.

Bel and Dragon Bela 1. One of the five cities of the plain which was spared at the intercession of Lot, and received the name of Zoar ( Genesis 14:2; 19:22). It lay on the southern extremity of the Dead Sea on the frontier of Moab and Palestine (Jerome on Isaiah 15), and on the route to Egypt, the connection in which it is found, Isaiah 15:5; Jeremiah 48:34; Genesis 13:10. We first read of Bela in Genesis 14:2,8. 2. Son of Beor, who reigned over Edom in the city of Dinhabah eight generations before Saul, king of Israel, or about the time of the Exodus. He is supposed by some to be the same as Balaam. It is not improbable that he was a Chaldean by birth, and reigned in Edom by conquest. He may have been contemporary with Moses ( Genesis 36:31-33; 1 Chronicles 1:43,44). 3. Oldest son of Benjamin, according to Genesis 46:21 (KJV: “Belah”); Numbers 26:38,40; 1 Chronicles 7:6; 8:1, and head of the family of the 4. Son of Ahaz, a Reubenite ( 1 Chronicles 5:8).

Belaites Descendants of Bela 3.

Belial The translators of our KJV, following the Vulgate, have frequently treated this word as a proper name, and given it in the form Belial, in accordance with 2 Corinthians 6:15. There can be no question, however, that the word is not to be regarded as a proper name in the Old Testament; its meaning is “worthlessness”, and hence “recklessness, lawlessness”. The expression son or man of Belial must be understood as meaning simply a worthless, lawless fellow. The term as used in 2 Corinthians 6:15 is generally understood as an appellative of Satan, as the personification of all that was bad.

Bel-te-shazzar Name given to Daniel ( Daniel 1:7). Correctly (“favored by Bel”) Bells Large bells were not used in ancient times, nor are they in use now. Small hand bells were used by the Greeks, Romans and Jews. The high priest wore round the hem of his dress seventy-two gold bells, which were placed alternately with pomegranates. The little girls of Cairo wear strings of them round their feet. They were sometimes attached to the harness of horses and camels.

Bellows The ancients used two kinds, according to the monuments, ingeniously contrived to be worked by the feet ( Jeremiah 6:29).

Belma-im Place South of Dothaim ( Judges 7:3).

Belmen Place in Samaria ( Judges 4:4). Believe Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ ( Acts 13:35). Believers Christians ( Acts 5:14). Belshazzar (“Bel’s prince” ) The last king of Babylon. A mysterious writing appearing on the wall during a great feast, and his magicians not being able to read it, Daniel was called, and explained its meaning. He died the same night (Daniel 5). Ben (“son” ) A Levite — a porter of the ark ( 1 Chronicles 15:18). Ben-a-bina-dab Son of Abinadab ( 1 Kings 4:11).

Benaiah (“God-built” ) 1. Son of Jehoiada, of Kabzeel, a Levite ( 2 Samuel 23:20-23). 2. One of David’s 30 valiant men; an Ephraimite. Seven others of this name, but none very noted. Ben-Ammi (“son of my kindred” ) Son of the younger daughter of Lot ( Genesis 19:38).

Benches Hatches, or “thy deck” ( Ezekiel 16:15 ff). Ben-Dekar (“Lance-bearer” ) Son of Dekar ( 1 Kings 4:9).

Bene-Berak (“sons of lightning” ) City of the tribe of Dan ( Joshua 19:45). Ben-e-factor (“a doer of good” ) Title of honor ( Luke 22:25).

Benejaakan Tribe descended from Jaakan ( ), a Horite chief (Genesis 36), and who owned wells where Israel encamped in the Exode ( Numbers 33:31).

Benekedem (“people of the East” ) Kedem was the name for the whole country East of Palestine, far or near. They lived (as now) in tents, kept flocks and herds, and were always ready for robbing expeditions. Ben-Geber Son of Geber ( 1 Kings 4:13). Benhadad (“son of Adad,” a god of Syria ). 1. King of Syria, who was hired by Asa, king of of Judah, to invade Israel ( 1 Kings 15:18). Supposed to be the same as Hadad, the Edomite, who rebelled against Solomon (1 Kings 11) 2. King of Syria, son of the former, and always at war with Ahab ( Kings 21:30). He consulted the prophet Elisha, by means of Hazael, and was smothered by him soon after, B.C. 884 (2 Kings 8). 3. A king of Syria, son of Hazael (2 Kings 13). Ben-Hail (“warrior” ) A prince Jehoshaphat sent to teach in Judah ( 2 Chronicles 17:7). Ben-Hanan (“son of one gracious” ) Son of Shimon ( 1 Chronicles 4:20). Ben-Hesed (“son of Hesed” ), ( 1 Kings 4:10 ). Ben-Hur (“son of Hur” ), ( 1 Kings 4:8 ).

Be-ninu (“our son” ) A Levite, who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah ( Nehemiah 10:13). Benjamin (“fortune” ) Named Benoni by his dying mother. Youngest son of Jacob, second of Rachel, born near Bethlehem; his father’s favorite, next to Joseph, and the mark of special honors from him. He had the affection of his brothers, and received their favors as a matter of course, and was not very positive, but a quiet, gentle spirit. He had ten sons and grandsons at the migration into Egypt (Genesis 46). He made no special history for himself. The tribe was always of least consequence. At the Exodus there were 35,400 of full age, and at the passage over Jordan River 45,600. There were 26 cities in their portion (see map). The tribe was almost destroyed for violating the rights of hospitality ( Judges 19:20), 600 only escaping to the rock Rimmon (see and ). The first deliverer of Israel (from Moab) in the time of the judges, was Ehud, a Benjamite. The first king of Israel was Saul, a Benjamite; and Saul (Paul), the apostle, was also of this tribe. Benjamin, Gate of, In Jerusalem.

Benja-mite Decendant of Benjamin ( Judges 3:15).

Beno (“his son” ) A Levite, son of Merari ( 1 Chronicles 24:26,27).

Benoni (“son of my sorrow” ) Name given by Rachel to her son ( Genesis 35:18). Ben-Zoheth (“son of Zoheth” ) Decendant of Judah ( 1 Chronicles 4:20).

Beon Place East of the Jordan River ( Numbers 32:3). (Compare Numbers 32:38).

Beor (“torch or lamp” ) 1. Father of Bela. Edomite king ( Genesis 36:32). 2. Father of Balaam.

Bera (“son of evil” ) King of Sodom ( Genesis 14:2).

Berachah (“blessing” ) 6 miles South of Bethlehem, 1 mile East of the Hebron road, now called Bereikut ( 2 Chronicles 20:26).

Ber-a-chiah A Levite ( 1 Chronicles 6:39). Be-Raiah or (“Jehovah created”) Son of Shimhi. A Benjamite chief ( 1 Chronicles 8:21).

Berea 1. Macedonia ( Acts 17:10). Visited by Paul and Silas, Paul’s companion. Sopater of Berea ( Acts 20:4; Romans 16:21). Sosipater. Now called Verria, on the East slope of Olympus, well watered, and commanding a fine view of the plains of Axius and Haliacmon; 15,000 population. The ruins are Greek, Roman, and Byzantine. 2. A name of Aleppo. 3. Judea, near Jerusalem (1 Macc. 4:4; Josephus, Antiquities xi. section 1). Jerome says certain persons lived in this city who had, and used Matthew’s Hebrew Gospel.

Ber-e-chiah (“God blessed” ) 1. Son of Zerubbabel ( 1 Chronicles 3:20). 2. Father of Meshullam 13 ( Nehemiah 3:4,30). 3. A Levite ( 1 Chronicles 9:16). 4. A doorkeeper for the Ark ( 1 Chronicles 15:23). 5. A chief in Ephraim (2 Chronicles 38:12). 6. Father of Asaph ( 1 Chronicles 15:17). 7. Father of Zechariah. ( Zechariah 1:1,7).

Bered In the wilderness, near Kadesh ( Genesis 16:14). Located at Elusa, Khulasa (Arabic), 12 miles South of Beersheba, where there is a well. Supposed to be Shur, and also Gerar.

Bereites Descendants of Beriah 1.

Berenice (“gift” ) Oldest daughter of Herod Agrippa I. Married to her uncle Herod, king of Chaleis, and was after his death wife of Polemon, king of Cilicia. She was also with Vespasian and Titus (Antiquities xix. 5, 1; xx. 7, 2,3).

Beri Son of Zophah ( 1 Chronicles 7:36).

Be-riah (“in evil,” or “a gift” ) 1. Son of Asher ( Genesis 46:17), descended from the Bereites. 2. Son of Ephraim ( 1 Chronicles 7:20,23). 3. A Benjamite ( 1 Chronicles 8:13,16). 4. A Gershonite Levite, son of Shimre ( 1 Chronicles 23:10,11).

Berites (“well” ) People visited by Joab in his search after Sheba ( 2 Samuel 20:14). Berith (“The God” ) ( Judges 9:46 ).

Be-rodach — Bala-Dan ( 2 Kings 20:12).

Beroth (1 Esdras 5:19 ). .

Berothah ; ; (ba-root). Chief seaport in North Palestine (Syria). ( 2 Samuel 8:8; Ezra 47:16). A city of the Phoenicians, named after Baal Berith (“god of wells”). Van de Velde proposes for the Scripture place Tall el Byruth, between Tadmor and Hamoth. .

Berothite, The, ( 1 Chronicles 11:39 ), from Beroth or Beeroth.

Berries Fruit of the olive-tree ( Isaiah 17:6; James 3:12).

Beryl .

Ber-Zelus (1 Esdras 5:38 ). Besai (“victory?” ) Returned with Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:49).

Bes-o-deiah Father of Meshullam — (Intimate of Jehovah) ( Nehemiah 3:16).

Besom A broom or brush of twigs ( Isaiah 14:23).

Besor (“cool” ), . Judah ( 1 Samuel 30:9). A winter torrent, rising south of Hebron, and reaching the sea a few miles South of Gaza.

Bestead ( Isaiah 8:21 ). Distressed.

Bestow To give or confer ( Exodus 32:29).

Be-tah (“trust, confidence” ) City of Hadadezer king of Zobah ( 2 Samuel 8:8). ( Genesis 22:24).

Betane of Eusebius, two miles from Terebinth, or Oak of Abraham, and four from Hebron. This has been variously identified with Betharath, Bethainun (Beth-anoth) and Betaneh, or Ectabana, in Syria.

Beten (“belly” ) A city on the border of Asher ( Joshua 19:25), 8 miles East of Ptolemais.

Beth House of any kind. , — (“house of the ford”), where John was baptizing ( John 1:28). The oldest manuscripts read . It was beyond Jordan River , and nearly opposite Jericho. — . Naph. Fenced city ( Joshua 19:38; Judges 1:33). Site lost — . Judah ( Joshua 5:59). Beit ainun, near Halhul, and Beit Sur. (Rob.) 3 miles North of Hebron. Bethany (“house of dates” ) One of the most interesting places in Palestine. The residence of Lazarus, who was raised from the dead; the frequent resting-place of Jesus; the home of Mary and Martha, and of Simon, the leper; and from whence the triumphal entry began; and near this place was the scene of the Ascension. On the Mount of Olives ( Mark 11:1; Luke 19:29); 15 furlongs off ( John 11:18); on the road to Jericho ( Luke 19:1,29), and near it was Bethphage. It is now called El Azariyeh, the city of Lazarus. Is in a hollow, surrounded with olives, almonds, pomegranates, oaks, and carobs. The buildings are ruinous and wretched. The house of Lazarus is pointed out as a square tower, very ancient; and his tomb, a cave in the rock, descended by 26 steps.

Beth-Arabah (“house of the desert” ) One of the six cities of Judah in the Arabah — sunk valley of the Jordan River ( Joshua 15:6,61; 18:22).

Beth-Aram Gad, East of the Jordan River ( Joshua 13:27, 32:36). Site located two miles East of the Jordan River in West Seir. Livias. Tell Haran.

Beth-Arbel ( Hosea 10:14 ). Site lost. Supposed to refer to Judges 8.

Beth-Aven (“house of naught” ) Benj. East of Bethel ( Joshua 7:2).

Beth-Azmaveth Benj. ( Nehemiah 7:28). On the hills Southeast of Jeba.

Beth-Baal-Meon Reuben, on the downs East of the Jordan River ( Joshua 13:17). Baal Meon ( Numbers 33:38). The name is still given to a ruin of large size, two miles Southwest of Hesban (Burck.) in West Zurka Main, where there are remains of a Roman road.

Beth-Barah (“house of the ford” ) ( Judges 7:24 ). Gideon’s victory was near Bethshean, and the fords were probably the outlets of the brooks coming down from the mountains of Ephraim. The place where Jacob crossed on his return from Mesopotamia, and at which Jephtha slew the Ephraimites. Located by Van de Velde on the Jordan River , at the ford on the Nablus-Es. — Salt road.

Beth-Basi In the Jordan River valley, not far from Jericho (1 Macc. 9:62,64; Josephus, Antiquities xiii. 1, section 5).

Beth-Birei Simeon ( 1 Chronicles 4:31), near Beersheba.

Beth-Car (“house of lambs” ) West of Mizpeh ( 1 Samuel 7:11; Josephus, Antiquities vi. 2. 2).

Beth-Dagon (“house of Dagon” ) 1. In the Shefelah, Judah ( Joshua 15:41). Site supposed to be found at Beit Dejan, between Lydda and Jaffa (Rob.) 2. Asher near the coast ( Joshua 19:27). 3. Beit dejan, about 5 miles Southeast of Nablus, Shechem.

Beth-dibla-Thaim (“house of the double cake” ) Moab ( Jeremiah 48:22).

Beth-Eden (“house of pleasantness” ) (Amos 1:5. ) Beth-e-Ked (“shearing house” ) Beth-el (“house of God” ) Ten miles north of Jerusalem, to the right of the Shechem road, where Jacob saw the ladder in his dream ( Genesis 28:19). The name of the city was originally Luz. Another account is, that Jacob set up a stone to mark the spot where God spake with him ( Genesis 35:14,15; Hosea 12:4,5). In Abram’s time it was called Bethel ( Genesis 12:8). Jeroboam, the king, set up a golden calf at Bethel (1 Kings 13). Jehu continued the worship of the calf. It was near Bethel that the event of the bears and Elisha and the forty-two children took place. It was a royal residence ( Amos 7:13). There were winter-houses and summer-houses and houses of ivory at Bethel ( Amos 3:14,15; 2 Kings 27:28). Josiah destroyed it. The worship of God and of idols went on side by side for many years ( Amos 5:14,22). Was a strong place in later times (1 Macc. 9:50). It is not mentioned in the New Testament. Josephus relates its capture by Vespasian (Wars iv. 9, sec. 9). The ruins cover four or five acres: on a low hill between two valleys, which run into es Suweinit (Rob). 2. Judah ( Joshua 12:16; 1 Samuel 30:27). Chesil, Bethul. , the rebuilder of Jericho ( 1 Kings 16:34). Beth-el-ite Hiel, the Bethelite, re-built Jericho ( 1 Kings 16:34).

Bethemek (“house of the valley” ) Asher, on the border of Jipthah-el. ‘Amkah, 8 miles Northeast of Akka (Rob.).

Bether Mountains of ( Song of Solomon 2:17). Lost. Bethesda (“house of mercy” or “place of flowing water” ) A pool at Jerusalem, near the sheep-gate, or “market,” with five porches, extensive enough to accommodate a large number of sick and infirm people, who resorted there for relief ( John 5:2). Supposed to be the great excavation near Stephen’s gate, now called Bethesda. The porches and water are gone, and all around it are ruins, but it is very large, cemented as if for holding water, and there might have been buildings on its east and north sides anciently. .

Bethezel (“fixed” ) Philistia ( Micah 1:11).

Bethgader (“wall” ) Geder ( Joshua 12:13).

Bethga-Mul (“house of the weaned,” or “cared” ) Moab, in the plains. Um-el Jemail, a few miles south of Busrah, in the Hauran (Rob.).

Beth-Haccerem (“house of the vine” ) New Tekoa ( Jeremiah 6:1; Nehemiah 3:14).

Beth-Haggan (“garden-house” ) Beth-Heran East of Jordan River, at the mouth of Wady Seil. Now Tell Haran-Livias.

Built by the Gadites ( Numbers 32:36; Joshua 13:27).

Beth-Hoglah (“house of partridge” ) On the border of Judah ( Joshua 15:6) and Benjamin, near Jericho. A great spring and ruin in the Jericho plain is now called Ain Hajla (Rob.).

Beth-Horon (“house of caverns” ) Two cities, on the Jerusalem-Jaffa upper road, built by Sherah, a woman of Ephraim, on the boundary between Ephraim and Benjamin ( Joshua 16:3,5; 18:13,14; 21:22). Two of the most memorable victories of the Jews occurred here — Joshua over the five Amorite kings, when the sun and moon stood still at his command (Joshua 10), and that of Judas Maccabaeus over the forces of Syria, under Seron (1 Macc, 3:13-24). The Roman army, under Cestius Gallus, was defeated here in the reign of Nero, with a loss of 5,680 men (Josephus, Wars,2. sec. 8).

Beth-Jeshimoth (“house of the wastes” ) East of the Jordan River, in the deserts of Moab ( Numbers 33:49). Was one of the cities which were “the glory of the country” ( Ezekiel 25:9).

Beth Jisimuth is now half a mile east of the Jordan River, and a mile north of the Dead Sea.

Beth-Lebaoth (“house of lionesses” ) Simeon ( Joshua 19:6; 1 Chronicles 4:31). Bethlehem (“house of bread” ) Four and a half miles south of Jerusalem. One of the most ancient cities in Palestine. Called (“fruitful”) ( Genesis 35:16; 48:7). The residence of Boaz and Ruth, the birthplace of David, and the residence of Saul. Rehoboam fortified it ( 2 Chronicles 11:16). The was a halting place for those who would “go to enter into Egypt” ( Jeremiah 41:17); which was probably the same inn in which Jesus was born ( Matthew 2:1,5; Luke 2:4,5). Also called and . Justin Martyr (A.D. 150) speaks of our Lord’s birth as having taken place “in a certain cave very close to the village”. The village is not again mentioned after the birth of Jesus, in the Scripture. The Emperor Hadrian planted a grove of Adonis over the cave, which stood 180 years (A.D. 135-315). The Empress Helena, after clearing away this grove, built a church on the spot, which has been continued, with additions, making it “a half church and half fort,” until the present day. The modern town is built on the low hill behind the convent (or church), facing the east. The hill is an offshoot of the main ridge, and ends in a little valley or narrow plain. The village is walled in, and is triangular. The plain east of the ridge is that on which tradition says the angels appeared to the shepherds, and it is called the Shepherds’ Field (Arabic, Beit Sahur — house of Sahur). As the plains were always, anciently, cultivated, it is probable that the shepherds would have been found on the hill, where they now may be found, with their flocks. A church containing the monuments of the three shepherds is mentioned by an early writer (Arculfus), as standing in the midst of the fields and terraced gardens. Jerome lived here, in a cell which is now pointed out, next to the great church, where he wrote most of his commentaries, and compiled the Latin Vulgate, the best ancient version of the Scriptures, A.D. 385-420. The present town has about 3,000 people, nearly all Christians, who are makers of crucifixes, beads, models of the holy places, and other articles for sale to pilgrims. 2. Zebulon, seven miles West of Nazareth ( Joshua 19:15). Birthplace of Ibzan, the judge ( Judges 12:8).

Bethlehemite One from Bethlehem ( 1 Samuel 16:1,18; 2 Samuel 21:19).

Beth-Maachah .

Beth-Marcaboth (“house of chariots” ) , ( Joshua 19:5). Of Simeon in Judah, extreme South. A station on the way to Egypt, where Solomon’s chariots were kept ( 1 Kings 9:19; 2 Chronicles 8:6). Post-station.

Beth-Meon House of habitation ( Jeremiah 48:23) Beth-Millo (“wall-house” ) 1. Near Shechem ( Judges 9:20,46-49). Perhaps a part of the fortification of Shechem. 2. A fort or tower on Zion ( 2 Kings 12:20). ( Samuel 5:9).

Beth-Nimrah (“house of pure water” ) East of the Jordan River, North of Beth-aram, in the Jordan River valley, opposte Jericho a fenced city ( Numbers 32:36; Joshua 42:27; Isaiah 15:6; Jeremiah 48:34). Eusebius mentions it as a large place. A group of ruins 2 miles East of the Jordan River are now called Nimrim or Wady Shoaib. Supposed to be the Bethabara of John 1:28; Matthew 3:5; Mark 1:5.

Beth-Oron ( Judges 4:4).

Beth-Palet (“house of flight” ) Judah ( Joshua 15:27; Nehemiah 11:26). Near Moladah and Beersheba. Lost. ( 2 Samuel 23:26).

Beth-Pazzer . ( Joshua 19:21). Lost. Beth-Peor East of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho, six miles North of Libias; a place dedicated to Baal ( Joshua 13:20). It is supposed that Moses was buried in this ravine ( Deuteronomy 3:29; 4:46; 34:6). Beth is used for Baal.

Beth-Phage (“house of figs” ) On the Mount of Olives near the Jericho road ( Matthew 21:1; Mark 11:1; Luke 19:29). Probably West of Bethany ( Matthew 21:19). The locality of the miracle of the withered fig-tree.

Beth-Phelet ( Nehemiah 11:26 ).

Beth-Rapha (“house of the giant” ) Judah ( 1 Chronicles 4:12). Lost.

Beth-Rehob (“house of room” ) Naph. Near Dan Laish ( Judges 18:28). A little kingdom of Aram ( Samuel 10:6). Now called Hunin, and was one of the strongest forks in the north Palestine, and commanded the plain of Huleh. Its beveled masonry marks its Phoenician origin (Rob. iii. 371). Bethsaida (“house of fish” ) Two places on the Sea of Galilee. 1. Bethsaida of Galilee ( John 12:21). The city of Andrew, Peter and Philip ( John 1:44). In the land of Gennesaret. 2. Bethsaida on the East of Jordan, raised to importance by Philip the Tetrarch, and named Julias, after the daughter of the emperor (Josephus, Antiquities xviii. 2, section 1). The 5,000 were fed near this place ( Luke 9:10; John 6:3-10; Mark 6:39; Matthew 14:19). A blind man was healed here ( Mark 8:22-26). About two miles north of the lake, and half a mile east of the Jordan River, is a long hill called Tell Julias, now covered with extensive ruins (Rob. ii. p. 413).

Bethsamos Beth-San (1 Macc. 5:52; 12:4O,41).

Beth-Shan ( 1 Samuel 31:10,12).

Beth-Shean (“house of rest”) Town of Manasseh in Issachar ( 1 Chronicles 7:29; Joshua 17:11). In the Ghor, 18 miles South of the lake of Galilee 4 miles West of the Jordan River. Called Scythopolis, from the Scythians, B.C. 631 (2 Macc. 12:29; Judith 3:10; Colossians 3:11). The corpses of Saul and his sons were fastened on its walls by the Philistines ( 1 Samuel 21:10,12). Three or four large brooks run near, and Ain Jalud, one of these, was the fountain which was near Jezreel, referred to in 1 Samuel 29:1. The ruins of Beisan now cover about 3 miles in circuit, among which is a tower of Phoenician origin. The ruins are on several hills, high, steep, between whose black, rocky bases the four brooks run. The highest hill is nearly feet high, and overlooks the Jordan River for many miles North and South. It must have been a city of temples (Rob. 3. 328; 1 Chronicles 1:10). Josephus names it as the chief city of the Decapolis (Josephus, Wars, iii. 9,7).

Beth-Shemesh (“house of the sun” ) Several places of this name. 1. Judah, near Kirjath Jearim ( Joshua 15:10; 1 Samuel 5:13). The ark was sent here by the Philistines from Ekron ( 1 Samuel 6:9-12,18). Now Ain Shems. 2. Issachar ( Joshua 19:22). 3. A fenced city of Naphtali ( Joshua 19:38). 4. An idolatrous temple in Egypt ( Jeremiah 43:13). BETH-SHITTAH (“house of the acacia” ) In the North of Palestine, to which the Midianites fled before Gideon ( Judges 7:22). In the valley of the Jordan (Rob. 2:356).

Beth-Tappuah (“house of the citron” ) Judah, near Hebron ( Joshua 15:53; 1 Chronicles 2:43). Now called Teffuh, and surrounded by olive groves, vines and fig-trees.

Bethsua (1 Macc. 4:29,61; 6:7,26,31,49-59; 9:52).

Bethuel ( 1 Chronicles 4:30 ). Simeon ( Joshua 19:4 ).

Bethulia South of the Plain of Esdraelon, near Dothan, in which the chief events of the book of Judith occurred (Rob. 2.313). The Frank Mountain was called Bethulia in the middle ages. Safed was also called by the name of the lost city.

Beth-zach-Arias Bethzur (“house of rock” ) Judah ( Joshua 15:58). Josephus says it was the strongest fortress in Judea. Built by Rehoboam, or fortified by him, and built by the people of Maon ( 1 Chronicles 2:42,45). In the days of Jerome this was considered as the place of the baptism of the eunuch by Philip. Robinson finds it in Beit Sur, 4 miles North of Hebron, near the Jerusalem road.

Betoli-us (Esdras 5:21 ). Bet-o-mes-tham and Betomasthem Lost.

Betrothing Betonim (“pistachio nuts” ) Gad ( Joshua 13:26; Genesis 43:11).

Beulah (“married” ) ( Isaiah 62:4 ). The name which the land of Israel is to bear when it is married.

Bezek (“lightning” ) Two places: 1. (“lord of Bezek”) Judah ( Judges 1:5). 2. Where Saul mustered his army ( 1 Samuel 11:8). Supposed to have been in the Jordan River valley, between Shethem and Bethshean (Josephus, Antiquities vi. 5, section 3). Lost.

Bezer (“gold or silver ore” ) A city of refuge in Reuben. In the wilderness ( Deuteronomy 4:43; Joshua 20:8). East of Jericho (21:36; 1 Chronicles 6:78). Bosor in Maccabees. East of the Dead Sea. Site lost. Supposed to have been near Um er Russas.

Bezeth Part of the Mount of Olives (1 Macc. 7:19; Josephus, Antiquities x. section 2). Lost. ( Judges 4:6; 15:4). ?

Bezai Returned with Zerubbabel ( Nehemiah 7:23; 10:18).

Bezalul (“in the shadow of God” ) Of Judah, son of Uri ( 1 Chronicles 2:20).

Biatas (1 Esdras 9:48 ). 2. Bible .

Bichri (“firstborn — youthful” ) Ancestor of Sheba ( 2 Samuel 20:1, etc.).

Bidkar (“stabber” ) Jehu’s captain ( 2 Kings 9:25). Bigtha (“garden — gardener, or given by fortune” ) one of the seven princes of Ahasuerus’ court ( Esther 1:10).

Bigthan and Bigtha-na fellow-conspirator with Teresh ( Esther 2:21).

Bigvai or Bigva-i (“husbandman” ) 2,056 children came home from captivity with Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:14).

Bikath (Amos. 1:5). 1. Bildad (“son of contention” ) The second of Job’s three friends ( Job 2:11, etc.).

Bileam Manasseh, near Megiddo ( 1 Chronicles 6:70). Bilgah (“cheerfulness” ) 1. A priest in David’s time ( 1 Chronicles 24:14). 2. A priest who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel ( Nehemiah 12:5,18). 3. .

Bilhah Simeon. . ( 1 Chronicles 4:29).

Bilgai or Bilga-i , a priest who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah ( Nehemiah 10:8). 2.

Bilhan (“modest” ) 1. A Benjamite ( 1 Chronicles 4:29). 2. Son of Ezer ( Genesis 36:27; 1 Chronicles 1:42). Bilshan (“eloquent” ) Companion of Zerubbabel ( Ezra 2:2).

Bimhal (“circumcised” ) Son of Japhet ( 1 Chronicles 7:33).

Binea (“fountain — gushing forth” ) Son of Moza. Descendant of Saul ( 1 Chronicles 8:37; 9:43).

Binnu-i (“a building” ) 1. Levite — father of Noadiah ( Ezra 8:33). 2. Son of Pahath-Moab ( Ezra 10:30). 3. Son of Bani ( Ezra 10:38). 4. Bani ( Nehemiah 7:15). 5. Levite — son of Henadad ( Nehemiah 3:24; 10:9). Birthday Birthday feasts were common ( Job 1:4), and martyrs and heroes were honored on that day. It was the king’s day ( Matthew 14:6), and kept holy, without work. Birthright The privilege of the firstborn son to a double share of the inheritance (Elisha asked for a double share of Elijah’s spirit). Great respect was (and is) paid to him as the expected successor of his father as head of the family. He is supposed to have been a kind of priest of the family, but there is no allusion to this in Scripture. Reuben lost his birthright, which was given to Joseph, whose two sons enjoyed it, one share each. There was a sacredness in the title, as is seen in the “first-begotten,” as applied to the Messiah, and to the Jewish people as the chosen of God.

Birzavith (“olive source” ) In the line of Asher ( 1 Chronicles 7:31); probably a place. Lost. ?

Bishlam (“son of peace” ) Officer in Persia at the time of the return from captivity ( Ezra 4:7).

Belemus in 1 Esdras 2:16. Bishop (“overseer” ) An old title of the Romans adopted in the early church for its officers who were charged with its superintendance. Originally the same as elder. Both deacons and elders were preachers as well as overseers. In Paul’s time the two titles had already become descriptive of different duties required of the different officers. The church elected them, and the apostles confirmed them by laying on their hands (sometimes also the hands of the presbytery — ), ( 2 Timothy 1:6; 1 Timothy 4:14). They were to lead blameless lives, be the husband of one wife; have a spiritual care over the flocks ( 1 Peter 5:2); teach in private and public; visit the sick ( James 5:14), receive and entertain strangers ( 1 Timothy 1:2). Bishops succeeded to the authority of the apostles.

Bi-Thiah (“worshiper — daughter of Jehovah” ) Wife of Mered of Judah, and daughter of a Pharaoh ( 1 Chronicles 4:18). Bithron (“the broken-up place” ) A district in the Jordan River valley, East of the river ( 2 Samuel 2:29). Not determined.

Bithynia Province in Asia Minor, on the Black Sea ( Acts 16:7). Paul was not suffered to visit Bithynia, but the gospel was preached there ( 1 Peter 1:1). The country is mountainous and well watered. Bitter A bitter day ( Amos 8:10). A bitter and hasty nation ( Acts 8:23). Simon at Samaria being in the gall of bitterness. The Passover was eaten with bitter herbs ( Exodus 12:8).

Bittern (Hebrew: kippod ). The Hebrew word is translated both “hedgehog” and “bittern”. The Arabic name of hedgehog is kunfod. Isaiah 34:7, etc., corrected would read, “The pelican and hedgehog” instead of “cormorant and bittern.” (See Wood’s Bible Animals). Others refer to porcupine as offering all the required points (Imp. Bible Dict., p. 227).

Bitumen Bizjothjah (“contempt of Jehovah” ) Judah, near Beersheba ( Joshua 15:28). Deir el Belah, on the coast miles from Gaza? Bewaty, 15 miles South of Gaza?

Biztha The second of the seven eunuchs of king Ahasuerus ( Esther 1:10).

Black .

Blains (“to boil up” ) Violent ulcerous inflammations, the sixth plague of Egypt ( Exodus 9:9,10). In Deuteronomy 28:27,35, called the botch of Egypt.

Blasphemy (“speaking evil of God” ) This crime was punished with death (by stoning) by the Jews, and both Jesus and Stephen were condemned on a charge of breaking the law. The Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit ( Matthew 12:31) has never been determined, unless it was the saying that the miracles of Jesus were the work of Satan.

Blasting A scorching of grain by the East wind ( Deuteronomy 28:22; Genesis 12:6ff.).

Blastus (“a bud, sprout” ) The chamberlain of Herod Agrippa I. An officer of great influence with the people of Tyre and Sidon when they aimed at a reconciliation with the king ( Acts 12:20). Blemish All priests and animals for sacrifice were required to be without blemish or bodily defect ( Leviticus 21:17). Jesus Christ is compared to “a lamb without blemish” ( 1 Peter 2:13). Blessing Favors or benefits specially given by God. Men bless God by thankfully acknowledging his goodness and excellence. The same acts and returns among men have the same name.

Blinding Blindness Is very common in the East from many causes ( Matthew 9:27ff; 11:5; 12:22; 20:30ff). “Opening the eyes of the blind” is mentioned as a special attribute of the Messiah ( Isaiah 29:18). Blindness was willfully inflicted as a punishmerit ( Judges 16:21). See the picture on p. 28 in the book. Blood Among the Hebrews called “the life” ( Leviticus 17:11-14). In sacrifices the blood was caught and disposed of in a prescribed manner (Leviticus 4). Murder was held to curse the place where it was done (a superstition still strong in nearly every country ( Genesis 4:10). The Jewish people from the time of Noah were forbidden to eat blood ( Genesis 9:4), when at the same time animal food was permitted, because the blood was specially offered to God in sacrifice ( Leviticus 17:11). Since animal sacrifices have been abolished by the one great sacrifice of Jesus, blood is eaten by Christians. is the nearest relative (to the fifth degree) to any person who has been murdered, whose duty it is to avenge the death ( Genesis 9:5). A money payment is often accepted for a life in the East. The 6 Cities of Refuge were appointed as a refuge for any who accidentally killed another (not for murderers, for whom there was no refuge or pardon). The “blood-revenge” has more than any other custom or power, prevented the tribes of Arabia from exterminating each other. Blot Blame, or blameworthiness ( Job 31:7; Proverbs 9:7).

Blue Boanerges (“sons of thunder — loud voiced?” ) Names given to the two zealous sons of James and John (Mark. 3:17).

Boar Swine. Boat Ship. Boaz (“agile” ) Married Ruth as directed by the law ( Deuteronomy 25:5). He was a pure and high-minded man, fearing the Lord and keeping his obligations among men.

Boccas (1 Esdras 8:2 ). Bocheru (“youth or firstborn” ) Son of Azel ( 1 Chronicles 8:38).

Bochim (“the weepers” ) West of the Jordan River, North of Gilgal ( Judges 2:1,5).

Bohan A stone set up on the border of Benjamin and Judah, between Betharabah and Bethhoglab on the East, and Adummim and Eushemesh on the West ( Joshua 15:6; 18:17).

Boil Boiled (“formed into seed-vessels” ) The flax was bolled ( Exodus 9:31).

Bolster Bond Bondage. .

Bonnet Book Booths Huts made of branches of trees or other very perishable materials.

Booz Boaz ( Matthew 1:5; Luke 3:32).

Borith (2 Esdras 1,2 ). Borrow Loan.

Boscath (“stony” ) ( 2 Kings 22:1). Bosom Abraham’s bosom. Intimacy and love are expressed by this word when we speak of bosom friends; it was well known to the ancients ( Luke 16:20).

Bosor East of the Jordan River, in Gilead (1 Macc. 5:26,36).

Bosora Gilead. A strong city taken by Judas Maccabaeus; probably the same as Bozrah (1 Macc. 5:26,28). .

Botch Bottle One Creek and four Hebrew words are translated bottle (chemeth , nebel , bakbuk , nod and askos .) Bottles are of skins, or of earth or glass. Skins of goats and kids are used for the smaller, and of the ox for the larger. These skin bottles are mentioned by Homer, Herodotus and Virgil, and are now used in Spain and all over the Orient. Earthen and glass bottles were also used, and are often mentioned. Bowels In the Bible meaning the seat of the feelings as we now use heart; also mercy and compassion ( Genesis 43:30).

Bowing . Bowl Cups.

Box ; .

Box-tree This elegant shrub, or small tree, is twice named by Isaiah for its beauty ( Isaiah 41:19; 60:13; 2 Esdras 14:24). It is thought that the word ivory ought to he translated box-wood in Ezekiel 27:6. Box is still used for combs, and by the carver and the turner. It is the best material for blocks for the wood-engraver.

Bozez (“shining. — Teeth of the cliff” ) The rock on the North of the pass by which Jonathan entered the Philistine camp (1 Sam 14:4,5). In the Wady Suweinit, near Michmash.

Bozkath Judah, in the Shefelah ( Joshua 15:39; 2 Kings 22:1). The native place of King Josiah.

Bozrah (“enclosure; sheepfold” ) 1. Chief city in Edom ( Genesis 36:33). The modern name is Buseireh — little Busreh (Rob. ii. 167). It is still a strong fort on a hilltop among the mountains, about 25 miles Southeast of the Dead Sea, half way to Petra ( Isaiah 34:6; 63:1; Jeremiah 49:13,22; Amos 1:12; Micah 2:12). It is the center of a pastoral region. 2. In the plain country — the land of Mishor — ( Jeremiah 48:24). East of the Dead Sea and Lower Jordan River are high table-lands, called Belka, where there are three ruins, named Um-el-Jemal (Beth-gamul), Kureiyeh (Kerioth), and Busrah (Bozrah), in the Northeast section, which is a rich district near the Hauran. The walls of Bozrah were 4 miles in extent, and they did not include the suburbs. Temples, churches, mosques, and a beautiful theater, are all in ruins; only a strong castle is left entire.

Bracelet Armlet, wristlet. Ornament worn around the arm, above or below the elbow.

Brambles Thorns. Branch Limb of a tree — figuratively a person related to another, or to a family — as Jesus to the line of David ( Isaiah 4:2; 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5; 33:15; Zechariah 3:8; 6:12) — Christians to Christ. Brass The Hebrews did not mix copper and zinc, as we do, to make brass, but used the copper pure, or mixed tin with it, forming bronze; of which metal are nearly all of the antique coins not gold and silver.

Bravery In Isaiah 3:18, beauty, splendor.

Bray To make a noise like an donkey ( Job 6:6, etc.) or to break in pieces ( Proverbs 28:22).

Brazen Sea , molten.

Brazen Serpent . Brazen.

Breaches ( Judges 5:17 ), a rent, notch. . Bread (Hebrew: lehem or lechem ). First mentioned in Genesis 18:6. Bread was a term for the whole meal; as meal (ground grain) is for all that is eaten at any time. The best was made of wheat, ground and sifted, leavened and baked. Poorer kinds were made of barley, rye, beans, and lentiles. The bread was kneaded with the hands or with the feet (as shown on the monuments), in a trough, and if unleavened baked thin and quickly, as now by the Bedouins. There were private and public ovens ( Jeremiah 37:21; Nehemiah 3:11). Hot, smooth stones are used for baking now. The objectionable passage in Ezekiel 4:12 is explained when we know that dried dung of all kinds, in the East where there is no wood, is used for burning. Ephraim is a cake not turned ( Hosea 7:8). The baking-pan was used ( Leviticus 2:5; 2 Samuel 13:9), and the frying-pan. Breast-plate Breeches Under-drawers ( Exodus 28:42). Brethren Brothers.

Bribe Bribery of magistrates was forbidden ( Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 16:19), and when Samuel’s sons took bribes, and perverted justice, the people asked for a king (1 Samuel 8).

Brick Made of clay, clay and sand, mud with straw, burned in kilns, or dried in the sun. They were sometimes colored or painted in patterns. Houses of sundried bricks had layers of reeds or straw at intervals. David made the prisoners work in brick-kilns ( 2 Samuel 12:31). Bitumen, mud, and and a very hard cement were used to join the bricks. Bride and Bridegroom . Bridge The only mention of a bridge is in 2 Macc. 12:13. The Romans made the first bridges in Syria and Palestine. Bridle Bridles were in the lips of captives, as seen in the Assyrian sculptures. The prisoners are all lettered and have in the under lip a ring to which is attached a cord held by the king ( Isaiah 37:29; 2 Kings 19:28). See page 28 of the book.

Brier .

Brigan-dine .

Broidered “Broidered Hair” ( 1 Timothy 2:9).

Broth or Soup ( Judges 6:19,20; Isaiah 65:4 ). . Brimstone Sulphur. Found on the shore of the Dead Sea. Brook . Brother 1. Kinsman, brother, nephew, cousin. 2. Of the same tribe. 3. Of the same people. 4. An ally in war. 5. Any friend ( Job 6:15) 6. One in the same office ( 1 Kings 9:13). 7. Fellow man ( Luke 19:17). 8. One of a similar character ( Job 30:29). 9. Disciples ( Matthew 25:40). 10. Of the same faith (Amos 1:9; Acts 9:30). A term meaning similarity, as “brother of dragons,” in Job 30:29. for brethren of the Lord.

Brown .

Bruit OR ( Jeremiah 10:22).

Bubastis .

Buckler and .

Buffet To smite, to maltreat ( Matthew 26:67). Building .

Bukki (“mouth of God” ) 1. Fifth in the line of high priests after Aaron. Son of Abishua ( Chronicles 6:5). Boccas in Esdras 8:2. 2. One of Joshua’s assistants in the allotment. Of the tribe of Dan ( Numbers 34:22).

Buk-kiah (“hasting from Jehovah” ) A Levite. Son of Heman. Musician in the temple (1 Chr 25:4,13).

Bul (“rain” ) Eighth month. .

Bull Bul-rush .

Bulworks .

Bunah Son of Jerahmeel, of Pharez and Judah ( 1 Chronicles 2:25).

Bunni (“built” ) 1. A Levite ( Nehemiah 9:4). 2. A chief ( Nehemiah 10:15). 3. Ancestor of Shemaiah ( Nehemiah 11:15). Burial The custom was to bury in tombs or graves, and there were no exceptions, not even criminals ( Deuteronomy 21:23). The tombs cut in the rocks of Palestine and Egypt have been found to be depositories of much valuable information on the manners and customs of antiquity. Sepulchres for families were cut near the residence, in a garden, or by the road, long before they were expected to be needed. Only kings and prophets were buried in towns ( 1 Kings 2:10; 2 Kings 10:35; 1 Samuel 25:1). Rachel’s tomb was a monument erected on the spot where she died. It was a misfortune and a dishonor to fail of burial in the family tomb ( 1 Kings 13:22); and an honor to a person or family to wish to be buried with them ( Ruth 1:17); or to give one a place in a sepulchre ( Genesis 23:6; Luke 23:50). It was the custom to wash them with lime (“white”), each year ( Matthew 23:27). Spices were used to prepare the body for the grave ( 2 Chronicles 16:14; John 19:40), which were omitted as a mark of popular dishonor ( 2 Chronicles 21:19). Burning was very rare, and only recorded of Saul and his sons. The next of kin presided over the whole offices, but there were public buriers ( Ezekiel 39:12; Acts 5:#10 6:10). The body was wrapped in its usual dress, and with bandages. Coffins were rarely used. A stone sarcophagus was used for a great person — king, etc. The dead were carried in a coffin, by the relatives or hired persons, or by any who wished to honor the dead or the relatives. The desire was to be buried in the native place, as Jacob and Joseph wished to be carried to Canaan, because of a superstition that only those buried in the Promised Land would rise in the resurrection.

Burning .

Burning ague ( Leviticus 26:16 ). . Burnt-offering . Bush . Bushel .

Butler Cup-bearer.

Butter The term usually means curdled milk, curds, milk, and cheese. Butter (churned cream) is made by shaking a skin of cream, or milk, and when formed, melting, and pouring into skin bottles, or earthern jars. It is more like oil than our butter.

Buying .

Buz 1. Second son of Nahor and Milcah ( Genesis 22:21). 2. Elihu, the Buzite ( Job 32:2,6), was of this family (of Aram) which settled in Arabia ( Jeremiah 25:23).

Buzi Buzite, father of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1).

Buzite Descendant of Buzi ( Job 32:2,6).

By Sometimes meaning “against” ( 1 Corinthians 4:4).