Beerah is a minor figure mentioned only once in the King James Version of the Bible, appearing in the extensive genealogies of the book of Chronicles, which meticulously record the lineages and settlements of the tribes of Israel. Though his appearance is brief, it ties him directly to the history and eventual captivity of the tribes settled east of the Jordan River.
The Meaning of the Name
The name Beerah (Hebrew: בְּאֵרָה) is generally understood to mean “a well,” “well-known,” or “declaration.” While the name itself doesn’t provide significant insight into his character, its presence in the biblical record ensures his identity is preserved as part of the lineage of God’s chosen people.
Beerah in the Lineage of Reuben
Beerah is specifically identified as a chief man of the tribe of Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob. The book of 1 Chronicles details the leaders and settlements of Reuben before the tribe was carried away into exile by the Assyrians.
The scripture places Beerah at the end of a partial Reubenite genealogy:
“Bela the son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who dwelt in Aroer, even unto Nebo and Baalmeon: And eastward he inhabited unto the entering in of the wilderness from the river Euphrates: because their cattle were multiplied in the land of Gilead. And their brethren of the house of their fathers, were chief of the tribe of Reuben, Jeiel, and Zechariah, And the son of Azaz, Shema, the son of Joel, and Beerah his son, whom Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria carried away captive: he was prince of the Reubenites.” (1 Chronicles 5:8-10, 6, KJV).
Significance to Biblical Prophecy
The brief mention of Beerah is crucial because it links a specific individual to the fulfillment of prophecy and the unfolding history of God’s judgment and faithfulness:
- A Witness to Judgment: Beerah is singled out as one of the leaders “whom Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria carried away captive.” This historical event was the beginning of the end for the northern kingdom and the eastern tribes, fulfilling the covenant curses of Deuteronomy 28. Beerah’s capture marks a significant moment when God’s judgment began to fall on the unfaithful tribes.
- A “Prince of the Reubenites”: The Bible notes he “was prince of the Reubenites.” This signifies his high standing and leadership role, underscoring the severity of the exile—not only the common people but the very leadership of the tribe was removed.
Beerah serves as a simple but profound reminder that the detailed accounts of scripture, even the genealogies, tie together the faithfulness of God in both promise and judgment.