Beth-sa'ida
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Beth-sa'ida, often referred to as Bethsaida, is a significant location in the New Testament, known as the hometown of several of Jesus' disciples and a site of His miraculous works. The name "Bethsaida" means "house of fishing" or "house of the hunt," reflecting its historical role as a fishing village. It is situated on the northeastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, near where the Jordan River enters the lake.

Biblical References:

1. Hometown of Disciples:
Bethsaida is notably recognized as the hometown of Philip, Andrew, and Peter. In John 1:44 , it is stated, "Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the same town as Andrew and Peter." This connection highlights the town's importance as a center from which Jesus called His early followers.

2. Miracles of Jesus:
Bethsaida is the setting for several of Jesus' miracles. One of the most notable is the healing of a blind man, as recorded in Mark 8:22-26 . Jesus took the blind man by the hand, led him out of the village, and restored his sight, demonstrating His compassion and divine power.

3. Feeding of the Five Thousand:
Although the exact location is debated, the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand is traditionally associated with the vicinity of Bethsaida. In Luke 9:10-17 , Jesus feeds a multitude with five loaves and two fish, showcasing His ability to provide abundantly and His concern for both physical and spiritual nourishment.

4. Woe to Bethsaida:
Despite witnessing many miracles, Bethsaida, along with Chorazin, is rebuked by Jesus for its unbelief. In Matthew 11:21 , Jesus declares, "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes." This pronouncement underscores the town's failure to respond to the revelation of Christ's works.

Archaeological and Historical Context:

Bethsaida's exact location has been a subject of scholarly debate, with two primary sites proposed: et-Tell and el-Araj. Both sites have yielded archaeological findings that provide insights into the life and culture of the region during the time of Jesus. Excavations have uncovered remains of fishing equipment, homes, and other artifacts that align with the biblical description of a fishing village.

Theological Significance:

Bethsaida serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of faith and repentance. Despite its proximity to Jesus and the miracles performed there, the town's lack of belief led to a stern warning from the Savior. This narrative invites reflection on the response to divine revelation and the call to faithfulness.

Bethsaida's role in the New Testament narrative highlights the intersection of divine action and human response, serving as a backdrop for the ministry of Jesus and the calling of His disciples. Its mention in the Gospels emphasizes the transformative power of Christ's presence and the responsibility of those who witness His works.
Concordance
Beth-sa'ida (6 Occurrences)

Mark 6:45
And immediately he constrained his disciples to go into the boat, and to go before to the other side, unto Bethsaida, till he may let the multitude away,
(See RSV)

Mark 8:22
And he cometh to Bethsaida, and they bring to him one blind, and call upon him that he may touch him,
(See RSV)

Luke 9:10
And the apostles having turned back, declared to him how great things they did, and having taken them, he withdrew by himself to a desert place of a city called Bethsaida,
(See RSV)

Luke 10:13
Wo to thee, Chorazin; wo to thee, Bethsaida; for if in Tyre and Sidon had been done the mighty works that were done in you, long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes, they had reformed;
(See RSV)

John 1:44
Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter.
(See NAS)

John 12:21
these then came near to Philip, who 'is' from Bethsaida of Galilee, and were asking him, saying, 'Sir, we wish to see Jesus;'
(See RSV)

Thesaurus
Beth-sa'ida (6 Occurrences)
Beth-sa'ida. Beth-saida, Beth-sa'ida. Bethsamos . Multi-Version Concordance
Beth-sa'ida (6 Occurrences). Mark 6:45 And immediately ...
/b/beth-sa'ida.htm - 7k

Beth-saida (6 Occurrences)
Beth-saida. Bethsaida, Beth-saida. Beth-sa'ida . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Bethsaida, Beth-saida. Beth-sa'ida . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-saida.htm - 8k

Bethsamos
Bethsamos. Beth-sa'ida, Bethsamos. Bethshan . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
BETHSAMOS. ... See BETHASMOTH. Beth-sa'ida, Bethsamos. Bethshan . Reference
/b/bethsamos.htm - 6k

Resources
Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.org

What can we learn from the tribe of Naphtali? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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