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H1030 · Hebrew · Old Testament
בֵּית הַשִּׁמְשִׁי
Beth-Shimshi
Adjective, gentilic
Bethlehemite / Of Beth-shemesh

Definition

A gentilic adjective meaning "one from Beth-shemesh" — house of the sun. Beth-shemesh was a Levitical city on the border of Judah, the site where the ark of the covenant returned from Philistine captivity. Elhanan, one of David's warriors, is called "Beth-halLachmi" in 2 Samuel 21:19, while the parallel in 1 Chronicles uses similar gentilic forms.

Usage & Theological Significance

Beth-shemesh — the house of the sun — became famous as the place where the ark of God arrived home after seven months in Philistine territory. The Levites there looked into the ark and were struck dead (1 Samuel 6:19) — a sobering reminder that even the rejoicing of God's return carries the weight of holiness. The sun imagery in the name also carries prophetic resonance: Malachi 4:2 speaks of the "Sun of Righteousness" arising with healing in its wings. Christ is the true Beth-shimshi — the one in whom the glory of God fully dwells and shines.

Key Bible Verses

1 Samuel 6:13 Now the people of Beth Shemesh were harvesting their wheat in the valley, and when they looked up and saw the ark, they rejoiced at the sight.
1 Samuel 6:19 But God struck down some of the inhabitants of Beth Shemesh, putting seventy of them to death because they looked into the ark of the LORD.
Joshua 21:16 and Ain and Beth Shemesh, together with their pasturelands — nine towns from these two tribes.
Malachi 4:2 But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays.
John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son.

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External Resources

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