BEERAH.

—Biblical Data:

A descendant of Reuben, and head of the tribe at the time it was taken into captivity by Tiglath-pileser (I Chron.v. 6).

J. Jr. G. B. L.—In Rabbinical Literature:

Beerah, the prince of the tribe of Reuben, is identical with Beeri, the father of the prophet Hosea and himself a prophet (Lev. R. xv.). He was called ("well") because he was a well-spring of knowledge and scholarly attainments. God caused him to die in the Assyrian captivity, in order that his piety might be of service to his fellow-exiles who died there, and that he might lead them to Palestine at the Resurrection.

The Wells of Beer-sheba.(After a photograph.)
Bibliography:
  • Pesiḳta, ed. Buber, xxv. 159b.
J. Sr. L. G.
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