Beth-dagan is a biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the territorial allotments of the tribes of Israel. The name "Beth-dagan" translates to "house of Dagon," indicating a possible connection to the worship of the Philistine deity Dagon. This connection suggests that the site may have been a center of pagan worship before or during the time of Israelite settlement.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 15:41 · "Gederoth, Beth-dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah—sixteen cities, along with their villages."

In this passage, Beth-dagan is listed among the cities in the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The context suggests that it was one of the fortified cities or towns within the region, contributing to the overall defense and administration of Judah's inheritance.

2. Joshua 19:27 · "It then turned toward the east to Beth-dagon, touched Zebulun and the Valley of Iphtah-el, and went north to Beth-emek and Neiel, extending to Cabul on the left."

Here, Beth-dagan is mentioned in the description of the boundary of the tribe of Asher. This indicates that there may have been more than one location named Beth-dagan, or that the boundaries of the tribes were complex and interwoven, with certain cities serving as boundary markers.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Beth-dagan's name suggests a historical connection to the Philistine god Dagon, who was worshiped in various parts of the ancient Near East. Dagon was often associated with fertility and grain, which may imply that Beth-dagan was a site of agricultural significance. The presence of a place named after a foreign deity within Israelite territory highlights the cultural and religious diversity of the region during the biblical period.

The mention of Beth-dagan in the context of tribal boundaries and city lists underscores the importance of these locations in defining the territorial extent of the tribes of Israel. The cities served not only as administrative centers but also as markers of identity and heritage for the tribes.

Archaeological Insights:

While specific archaeological evidence for Beth-dagan is limited, the general region of ancient Judah and the territories of the tribes have been extensively studied. Excavations in these areas have revealed fortified cities, agricultural installations, and artifacts that provide insight into the daily life and religious practices of the inhabitants. The presence of Philistine influence in certain areas is well-documented, supporting the biblical narrative of cultural interactions and conflicts.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Beth-dagan in the Bible serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinct identity amidst surrounding pagan cultures. The biblical narrative often emphasizes the need for faithfulness to Yahweh and the rejection of foreign gods, a theme that is underscored by the presence of places like Beth-dagan within the Promised Land.

Beth-dagan, therefore, represents both a physical location and a symbol of the spiritual battles faced by the Israelites as they sought to establish themselves in the land given to them by God.BETH-DAGON

beth-da'-gon (bethdaghon; Bethdagon):

(1) A town in the Shephelah of Judah named with Gederoth, Naamah, and Makkedah (Joshua 15:41). It may be represented by the modern Beit Dijan, about 6 miles Southeast of Jaffa. This however is a modern site, and not in the Shephelah. Nearly 2 miles to the south is Khirbet Dajan, a Roman site. The connection in which it occurs leads us to expect a position farther Southeast

(2) A city on the border of Asher (Joshua 19:27) which Conder would identify with Tell D'auk, near the mouth of the Belus, in the plan of Acre.

The name seems to have been of frequent occurrence. There is a Beit Dejan about 6 miles East of Nablus, and Josephus speaks of a fortress called Dagon above Jericho (Ant., XII, viii, 1; BJ, I, ii, 3). This would seem to indicate a widespread worship of Dagon. But the name may mean "house of corn."

W. Ewing

Bethdagan

/b/bethdagan.htm - 7k

Beth-cherem (2 Occurrences)
Beth-cherem. Beth-car, Beth-cherem. Bethdagan . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
JPS). Beth-car, Beth-cherem. Bethdagan . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-cherem.htm - 7k

Beth-dagan
Beth-dagan. Bethdagan, Beth-dagan. Bethdagon . Int. ... But the name may mean "house
of corn." W. Ewing. Bethdagan, Beth-dagan. Bethdagon . Reference Bible
/b/beth-dagan.htm - 7k

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