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1 Chronicles 5:8

And Bela the son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who dwelt in Aroer, even unto Nebo and Baalmeon:

1 Chronicles 5:8 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Numbers provides information about Bela, a descendant of Azaz, Shema, and Joel, who resided in Aroer, a city located between the Arnon River and the Jabbok River. The verse mentions that Bela's territory extended from Aroer to Nebo and Baalmeon, which were prominent cities in the region. Aroer was a city situated on the northern edge of the Arnon River, while Nebo and Baalmeon were located further north. Nebo was known for being a mountain in Moab, mentioned in the Old Testament as the place where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died. Baalmeon was a city in the territory of Reuben that later became a Levitical city. This verse highlights the geographical boundaries of Bela's inheritance, shedding light on the historical context of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and the distribution of land among the tribes.

Theological Overview

Belá, a descendant of Azaz, Shema, and Joel, resided in Aroer, extending his territory to Nebo and Baalmeon. The theological interpretation of this verse could highlight the significance of genealogy and lineage in the Old Testament as a way to establish and trace God's chosen people. Bela's lineage helps connect him to a specific family with a history of dwelling in certain regions, reflecting the importance of continuity and inheritance within the Israelite community. Additionally, a word study on the names of the places mentioned, such as Aroer, Nebo, and Baalmeon, could reveal their historical and geographical significance in biblical narratives, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the context in which Bela lived and ruled. By exploring the theological implications and conducting word studies on specific terms in this verse, readers can gain a comprehensive insight into the cultural, social, and religious background of the biblical narrative.

1 Chronicles 5:8 in other translations

American Standard Version

and Bela the son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who dwelt in Aroer, even unto Nebo and Baal-meon:

World English Bible

and Bela the son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who lived in Aroer, even to Nebo and Baal Meon:

Douay-Rheims

And Bala the son of Azaz, the son of Samma, the son of Joel, dwelt in Aroer as far as Nebo, and Beelmeon.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And Bela the sonne of Azaz, the sonne of Shema, the sonne of Ioel, which dwelt in Aroer, euen vnto Nebo and Baal meon.