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Beer-Sheba
(451 words)

[German Version]

(“seven wells,” interpreted in popular etymology as “well of the oath,” cf. Gen 21:31; 26:33). A location in the Negev, which, in the pre-Priestly historical narrative, is linked to the patriarchs Abraham (I) (Gen 21:27–32a, 33) and Isaac (Gen 26:23–33). The mention of אֵל עוֹלָם ('el ʿôlám), “God everlasting” (Gen 21:33), suggests an ancient cultic site, though this will hardly have been dedicated to a local deity. Rather, a sanctuary for Yahweh is explained with the theophany to Abraham. Most mentions attest to its continue…

Cite this page
Fritz, Volkmar, “Beer-Sheba”, in: Religion Past and Present. Consulted online on 19 March 2024 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/1877-5888_rpp_SIM_01628>
First published online: 2011
First print edition: ISBN: 9789004146662, 2006-2013



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