Topical Bible: Beer: A Station of the Israelites

◄ Beer: A Station of the Israelites ►

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Beer is a location mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the encampments of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The name "Beer" in Hebrew (בְּאֵר) means "well," indicating the presence of a water source, which was a critical factor for the Israelites as they journeyed through the arid regions.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Beer is found in the Book of Numbers. In Numbers 21:16-18 , the text states:

"From there they went on to Beer, the well where the LORD said to Moses, 'Gather the people together and I will give them water.' Then Israel sang this song: 'Spring up, O well, all of you sing to it— the princes dug the well; the nobles of the people hollowed it out with their scepters and with their staffs.'"

This passage highlights a moment of divine provision, where God instructs Moses to gather the people so that He might provide them with water. The Israelites respond with a song, celebrating the well and the life-sustaining water it provides. This event underscores the recurring theme of God's faithfulness and provision throughout the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Historical and Theological Significance:

Beer serves as a testament to God's ongoing care for His people. The provision of water at Beer is one of several instances where God miraculously provides for the Israelites' needs in the wilderness, reinforcing His role as their provider and sustainer. This event also reflects the importance of communal participation in God's blessings, as the leaders and nobles actively engage in the process of accessing the water.

Theologically, Beer can be seen as a symbol of spiritual refreshment and renewal. Just as the physical water sustained the Israelites, God's Word and presence are seen as essential for spiritual sustenance and growth. The song sung by the Israelites at Beer is an expression of gratitude and recognition of God's provision, serving as a model for worship and acknowledgment of God's blessings in the life of believers.

Geographical Context:

The exact location of Beer is not definitively known, but it is generally considered to be in the region east of the Jordan River, as the Israelites were moving towards the Promised Land. The mention of Beer in the context of the Israelites' journey places it within the broader narrative of their travels through the Transjordan area, which includes other significant sites such as Mount Nebo and the plains of Moab.

Cultural and Literary Aspects:

The song recorded in Numbers 21:17-18 is one of the few instances of Israelite poetry found in the Pentateuch. It reflects the oral tradition of the Israelites, where significant events were often commemorated through song and poetry. This practice served not only as a means of worship but also as a way to pass down important historical and theological truths to future generations.

In summary, Beer is a notable station in the Israelites' wilderness journey, representing God's provision and the community's response in worship and gratitude. It serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on God's provision and the joy that comes from recognizing His hand in the daily needs of life.

Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 21:16-18
And from there they went to Beer: that is the well whereof the LORD spoke to Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

"Thou Art Now the Blessed of the Lord. "
... have offended me, whether Philistine, or Israelites, or Gentiles. ... who, though in
a very humble station of life ... shall have "room", yea, even to Beer-sheba, "the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/thou art now the blessed.htm

The Reaction against Egypt
... [Illustration: 168.jpg A FORTIFIED STATION ON THE ROUTE BETWEEN THE NILE AND THE
RED SEA. Drawn by Faucher-Gudin, from a photograph by M. de Bock. ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... The bay and the strand which bordered it afforded an excellent station for the fleet,
and the plain, in spite of its marshes and brushwood, was one of those ...
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