Bethsamos
LocationsGeographical Setting
Bethsamoth is an ancient toponym mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, identified as a site of military conflict between the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.
What is the meaning of Bethsamos in the Bible?
Bethsamoth is a biblical location mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:31 as the site where the Israelites pursued the Philistines after the battle at Michmash.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Bethsamoth clarifies the geographical extent of Saul's military campaigns and the territorial dynamics between early Israelite and Philistine forces.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Bethsamos held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Bethsamos in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Bethsamos clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
1 Samuel 14:31
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Bethsamos." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/bethsamos/