Be-e'ri is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the prophetic literature. The name Be-e'ri means "my well" or "expounder," and he is recognized as the father of the prophet Hosea. His mention is brief, yet he holds significance as part of the lineage of one of the minor prophets.

Biblical References:

1. Hosea 1:1 : "The word of the LORD that came to Hosea son of Beeri during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and of Jeroboam son of Jehoash, king of Israel."

Be-e'ri is introduced in the opening verse of the Book of Hosea, establishing his role as the father of Hosea. This introduction situates Hosea within a historical and familial context, providing a backdrop for the prophetic messages that follow. The mention of Be-e'ri serves to authenticate Hosea's prophetic authority by linking him to a known lineage.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Be-e'ri lived during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, marked by political instability and spiritual decline. The era of the divided kingdom saw the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah experiencing varying degrees of fidelity to the covenant with Yahweh. Hosea's ministry, which Be-e'ri is indirectly associated with through his paternity, was characterized by calls for repentance and warnings of impending judgment due to Israel's unfaithfulness.

Theological Significance:

While Be-e'ri himself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, his mention underscores the importance of familial and tribal identities in the transmission of faith and prophetic tradition. The lineage of prophets often served to validate their messages, as their heritage was seen as a testament to their authenticity and divine calling.

In the broader theological framework, Be-e'ri's role as Hosea's father highlights the continuity of God's revelation through generations. The prophetic messages delivered by Hosea, which include themes of divine love, judgment, and redemption, are rooted in a historical context that Be-e'ri is part of, albeit indirectly.

Jewish Tradition:

In Jewish tradition, Be-e'ri is sometimes associated with a brief prophetic role himself, though this is not explicitly detailed in the canonical texts. Some rabbinic sources suggest that he may have had a minor prophetic function, contributing to the spiritual heritage passed down to Hosea.

Conclusion:

Be-e'ri's mention in the Bible, though limited, serves as a crucial link in the chain of prophetic tradition. His identity as Hosea's father places him within the narrative of God's ongoing relationship with His people, emphasizing the familial and historical dimensions of divine revelation.Be-e'ri (2 Occurrences)

Genesis 26:34
When Esau was forty years old, he took as wife Judith, the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Basemath, the daughter of Elon the Hittite.
(See RSV)

Hosea 1:1
The word of Yahweh that came to Hosea the son of Beeri, in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel.
(See RSV)

Be-e'ri (2 Occurrences)
Be-e'ri. Beeri, Be-e'ri. Beerlahairoi . Multi-Version Concordance
Be-e'ri (2 Occurrences). Genesis 26:34 When Esau was forty years ...
/b/be-e'ri.htm - 7k

Beeri (2 Occurrences)
... BEERI. be-e'-ri (be'eri, "expounder"): (1) Father of Judith, one of Esau's wives
(Genesis 26:34). (2) The father of the prophet Hosea (Hosea 1:1). ...
/b/beeri.htm - 7k

Beerlahairoi (1 Occurrence)

/b/beerlahairoi.htm - 8k

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