Location:
Tel Beersheba, also known as Tell es-Saba’, is in the northern Negev, east of modern Beersheba, overlooking the Beersheba and Hebron valleys.
The area has been settled since the Chalcolithic period due to freshwater springs in the Beersheba Valley.
biblical Narratives:
Beersheba is significant in the patriarchal narratives of the Bible, particularly during the years of wandering in the southern part of the land of Israel.
It is associated with divine revelations to the patriarchs, as seen in Genesis 26:24-25 and 46:1-2.
The site is also linked to disputes over wells with the Philistines and the origin of its name, which is derived from the Hebrew words “shevu’a” (oath) or “shiv’a” (seven), as mentioned in Genesis 21:22-34 and 26:15-33.
Tribal Territories:
Beersheba is listed among the cities of Simeon (Joshua 19:2; 1 Chronicles 4:28) and appears among the cities of the Negev of Judah (Joshua 15:28).
Historical Significance:
Beersheba is prominent in patriarchal narratives, associated with divine revelations, disputes over wells, and the name’s origin, which is linked to an oath or the number seven.
It was the southern boundary of Israel during the Judges and United Monarchy, symbolized as “from Dan to Beersheba.”
The prophet Amos referenced Beersheba in relation to pagan practices, and it was a settled point during the return from Babylon.
Identification:
The identification of the mound with biblical Beersheba is supported by its central location and lack of other fortified cities nearby that could have served as an administrative center.
Finds dating to the 12th and 11th centuries BCE may align with patriarchal ties to Beersheba, supporting the hypothesis that the biblical narratives cover the early Israelite settlement period.
Excavations:
Conducted from 1969 to 1976 by Tel Aviv University, the excavations were part of the Beersheba Valley Regional Research Project.
The goal was to uncover extensive areas for stratigraphic analysis and to preserve ancient remains.
Excavation Results:
- Chalcolithic Period: Isolated potsherds were found, and some pits used in the Iron Age I may have originated in this period.
- Iron Age I: Four strata (IX-VI) were identified, with the earliest characterized by pits used for dwellings and storage, indicating a temporary or seminomadic settlement.
- Iron Age I Well: A deep well was found, used until the Hellenistic period, possibly the same mentioned in patriarchal narratives.
- Stratum VIII: Marked by the first built houses, including a prototype of the four-room house, indicating a move toward permanent settlement.
- Stratum VII: Showed a departure from previous patterns, with houses built in a circular pattern for defense and communal living.
Sources
Stern, Ephraim-New Encyclopedia of Archaeological Excavations in the Holy Land 1-Israel Exploration Society (1993)