BEERSHEBA:THE WELL OF THE OATH
Beersheba, meaning “well of the oath” or “well of seven,” holds great historical and biblical significance as a key city in the southern region of ancient Israel. Known as the gateway to the Negev Desert, Beersheba is frequently mentioned in the Hebrew Bible and has been a center of ancient settlement, diplomacy, and faith.
Etymology:
Hebrew:
בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (B’ er sheva)
בְּאֵר ( B’ er ) = “well” or “spring”
שֶׁבַע ( Sheva) = “oath” or “seven”
Greek (Septuagint Translation):
Βηρσαβεέ (Bērsabeé)
This is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name, used in the
Septuagint (LXX), the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible
I).LOCATION:
Beersheba is located in the southern part of modern-day Israel, with in the Negev Desert region. It is situated approximately 120 kilometers ( 75miles ) south of Jerusalem and 40 kilometers ( 25 miles ) north of the Gulf of Aqaba.
Geographical Coordinates:
Latitude: 31.2518° N
Longitude: 34.7913° E
Beersheba’s history stretches back to the time of the patriarchs, serving as a key settlement in the Negev region. Its location along ancient trade routes made it a strategic hub for commerce, diplomacy, and agriculture. The city’s wells were critical in an arid landscape, making them vital for survival and territorial disputes.
1. The Patriarchal Era
Beersheba’s story begins with Abraham, who is often associated with the city. After settling in Canaan, Abraham’s life was marked by interactions with local leaders, notably Abimelech, the king of Gerar.
Abraham and the Covenant with Abimelech (Genesis 21:22–34)
When Abimelech’s men seized a well that Abraham had dug, Abraham confronted the king. To resolve the conflict, Abraham provided lives tock to Abimelech, establishing a covenant. This agreement was made in Beersheba, and the city’s name likely derives from the term shevu’ah(oath) or sheva (seven), reflecting the number of lambs exchanged.
“Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the Lord, the Eternal God.” ( Genesis 21: 33 )
This act of planting a tree symbolized a permanent settlement and a sacred connection to God.
2. Isaac’s Encounter in Beersheba (Genesis 26:23–33)
Decades later, Isaac also found himself in Beersheba, facing similar disputes over wells. After moving to the city, God appeared to him, reaffirming the covenant made with Abraham. This divine encounter highlighted Beersheba’s spiritual significance as a place of divine revelation and continuity of faith.
“The Lord appeared to him the same night and said, ‘I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.’’ ( Genesis 26: 24 )
III. Biblical significance
1. The Symbol of Covenant and Peace
Beersheba is a symbol of peace and covenant, not only between humans but also between humanity and God. The agreements made here—whether between Abraham and Abimelech or Isaac and the Lord—underscore the city’s role as a spiritual and diplomatic center.
2. The Border of Israel’s Territory
The phrase “from Dan to Beersheba” appears throughout the Bible to describe the full extent of Israel’s land.
“From Dan to Beersheba, from the town of Gilead to the south, the people of Israel came together as one and assembled before the Lord at Mizpah.” ( Judges 20: 1 )
This expression shows that Beersheba was seen as the southern boundary of the Promised Land, marking the edge of Israel’s territorial extent.
3. A Place of Prophetic Encounters
The prophet Elijah also traveled to Beersheba during his flight from Queen Jezebel. There, he found refuge and divine guidance, demonstrating Beersheba’s role as a spiritual sanctuary.
“Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there.” ( 1 Kings 19: 3 )
IV. Archaeological and cultural significance
Beersheba has been the focus of extensive archaeological excavations, revealing layers of ancient civilizations. Excavations have uncovered:
- Ancient city walls and gates
- Water systems and cisterns
- Artifacts from the Canaanite, Israelite, and Roman periods
The site’s well-preserved ruins provide evidence of Beersheba’s importance as a trading center and its role in ancient Israelite society.
Modern Beersheba
Today, Beersheba is a modern city in southern Israel, often referred to as the “Capital of the Negev.” It has evolved from an ancient biblical city to a vibrant urban center, known for its universities, technology hubs, and cultural heritage.