Bible Dictionary
Beacon
A beacon was a signal-pole or conspicuous standard raised on an elevated place to direct or summon people. The same Hebrew word can also mean a mast.
Definition
A beacon was a conspicuous signal-pole or standard erected on an elevated place to direct or summon people. The same Hebrew word is ordinarily rendered “mast” in other passages.
Biblical Usage
Isaiah uses the beacon or signal-staff in connection with a call for people to assemble for a great national purpose. In parallel usage the word is rendered “ensign” or “pole.”
Historical Background
Its position on a mountain or other eminence made it visible as a public signal.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A pole (Heb. to’ren) used as a standard or ensign set on the tops of mountains as a call to the people to assemble themselves for some great national purpose (Isa. 30:17). In Isa. 33:23 and Ezek. 27:5, the same word is rendered “mast.” (See Banner.)
Smith's Bible Dictionary
A signal or conspicuous mark erected on an eminence for direction. (Isaiah 30:17)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>be'-k'-n. The translation of the Hebrew toren, which usually means "mast" (compare Isa 33:23; Eze 27:5), but in Isa 30:17 being used in parallelism with "ensign" the meaning may be "signal-staff" (Isa 30:17 the American Revised Version, margin "pole").</p>