בֶּ֫זֶק (be.zeq)
be.zeq
Bezek
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The name Bezek, meaning lightning, identifies a specific location in the tribal territory of Benjamin. It appears in Scripture primarily as the rallying point for Israel’s forces under King Saul during their initial campaign against the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11:8). This gathering place served as a strategic hub where the tribes united to defend their people.
Bezek is also significant as the hometown of Adonibezek, a Canaanite king defeated by Israel. The narrative in Judges records his capture and mutilation there, marking a pivotal moment in the conquest of the land. The name’s association with lightning may reflect the speed or suddenness of military action associated with this site.
Though mentioned only three times, Bezek holds a distinct place in the biblical record as both a military assembly point and the setting for a notable act of judgment. Its brief appearances highlight the interconnectedness of Israel’s early history and the ongoing struggle for control of the land.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Bezek means lightning, bringing to mind sudden power and swift action. In the biblical record, this location serves as a gathering point where Israel united under King Saul to face a common enemy. It reminds us that strength often comes not from individual effort, but from standing together in community.
Bezek also appears in the story of Adonibezek, a Canaanite king who met his defeat there. This account highlights the serious consequences of violence and pride. For readers today, it offers a sobering look at how conflict escalates and how justice operates in the ancient world.
While the name itself is brief, its presence in Scripture connects military history with spiritual lessons about unity and accountability. We can find encouragement in knowing that God uses ordinary places for significant moments in His plan.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- at/ Bezek3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְּ/בֶ֔זֶק2×
- בְּ/בָ֑זֶק1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 11:8
He counted them in Bezek; and the children of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand.
This verse shows Bezek as the strategic rallying point where Saul counted Israel's forces before battle, highlighting unity.
-
Judges 1:4
Judah went up, and Yahweh delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand. They struck ten thousand men in Bezek.
Here Bezek is the site of a major victory where Judah defeated ten thousand Canaanites and Perizzites.
-
Judges 1:5
They found Adoni-Bezek in Bezek, and they fought against him. They struck the Canaanites and the Perizzites.
This occurrence introduces Adonibezek, whose capture at Bezek illustrates the personal nature of ancient warfare.