Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Bamoth-baal, also referred to as Bamoth, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is associated with the Moabite region and is significant in the narrative of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. The name "Bamoth-baal" translates to "high places of Baal," indicating its use as a site for pagan worship, particularly of the Canaanite deity Baal. Biblical References: Bamoth-baal is first mentioned in the Book of Numbers as part of the itinerary of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. Numbers 22:41 states, "The next morning Balak took Balaam and brought him up to Bamoth-baal, and from there he saw the outskirts of the people." This passage highlights the location's strategic vantage point, allowing Balaam to view the encampment of the Israelites. In Numbers 21:19-20, Bamoth is listed as one of the stations in the journey of the Israelites: "From Mattanah they went to Nahaliel, and from Nahaliel to Bamoth, and from Bamoth to the valley in Moab where the top of Pisgah overlooks the wasteland." This passage situates Bamoth-baal geographically within the Moabite territory, near the Arnon River and the plains of Moab. Historical and Cultural Context: Bamoth-baal was a high place, a type of elevated site commonly used in ancient Near Eastern cultures for religious rituals and sacrifices. The association with Baal, a prominent Canaanite god of fertility and weather, suggests that the site was used for idolatrous worship practices that were prevalent among the Moabites and other neighboring peoples. The high places were often condemned in the Hebrew Scriptures due to their connection with pagan worship. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against adopting the religious practices of the surrounding nations, including the worship at high places like Bamoth-baal. Theological Significance: The narrative involving Bamoth-baal underscores the tension between the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel, and the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations. The presence of Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, at Bamoth-baal highlights the spiritual conflict and the attempts of Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites through Balaam. However, God intervenes, turning Balaam's intended curses into blessings for Israel (Numbers 23-24). Bamoth-baal serves as a reminder of the Israelites' call to remain faithful to God amidst the temptations of idolatry. It also illustrates God's sovereignty and protection over His people, as He thwarts the plans of those who seek to harm them. Archaeological Insights: While the exact location of Bamoth-baal remains uncertain, it is generally believed to be situated in the region of modern-day Jordan, within the ancient territory of Moab. Archaeological findings in the area have uncovered various high places and altars, providing insight into the religious practices of the Moabites and their neighbors. Conclusion: Bamoth-baal is a significant biblical site that reflects the religious and cultural dynamics of the ancient Near East. Its mention in the Scriptures serves as a testament to the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their covenantal relationship with God amidst a landscape filled with idolatrous influences. Easton's Bible Dictionary Heights of Baal, a place on the river Arnon, or in the plains through which it flows, east of Jordan (Joshua 13:17; Comp. Numbers 21:28). It has been supposed to be the same place as Bamoth. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BAMOTH; BAMOTH-BAALba'-moth, ba'-moth-ba'-al (bamoth-ba'al, "high places of Baal"): Bamoth is referred to in Numbers 21:19, 20, as a station in the journeyings of Israel North of the Arnon. It is probably the same place as the Bamoth-baal of Numbers 22:41 (Revised Version margin), whither Balak, king of Moab, conducted Balaam to view and to curse Israel. Bamoth-baal is named in Joshua 13:17 as one of the cities given to Reuben. Mesha, on the Moabite Stone, speaks of having "rebuilt" Beth-bamoth. Strong's Hebrew 1120. Bamoth -- "high place," a place in Moab... Word Origin from the same as bamah Definition "high place," a place in Moab NASB Word Usage Bamoth (2), Bamoth-baal* (1). Bamoth, Bamoth-baal. ... /hebrew/1120.htm - 6k 1168a. Baal -- a heathen god Library Perea. Beyond Jordan. Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Thesaurus Bamothbaal (1 Occurrence)... Israel. Bamoth-baal is named in Joshua 13:17 as one of the cities given to Reuben. ... Multi-Version Concordance Bamothbaal (1 Occurrence). Joshua ... /b/bamothbaal.htm - 7k Bamoth-baal (2 Occurrences) Bamoth (4 Occurrences) Bamoth-ba'al (1 Occurrence) Tableland (8 Occurrences) Table-land (8 Occurrences) Dibon (12 Occurrences) Meon (5 Occurrences) Plateau (13 Occurrences) Resources Who was Balaam in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Baal Peor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Baal? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bamoth-baal (2 Occurrences)Numbers 22:41 Joshua 13:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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