Bible Dictionary
Beth-anath
A fortified city in the territory of Naphtali. The Canaanites were not expelled from it, and it may have preserved the name of the Canaanite goddess Anath.
Definition
Beth-anath was a fortified city in the territory of Naphtali. Its name means “house” or “temple of Anath,” a Canaanite goddess.
Biblical Usage
Beth-anath is listed among the cities of Naphtali. The Canaanites were not expelled from it and continued to dwell there.
Historical Background
The city is represented by the modern village Ainatha, though the supplied sources give differing distances from nearby locations. Its name reflects an association with Anath.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
House of response, one of the fenced cities of Naphtali (Josh. 19:38). It is perhaps identical with the modern village ‘Ainata, 6 miles west of Kedesh.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>beth-a'-nath (beth`anath; Bainathath): A city in the territory of Naphtali, named with Horem and Bethshemesh (Jos 19:38; Jud 1:33). It is represented by the modern village Ainatha, about 12 miles Northwest of Cafed. The name signifies the "house" or "temple" of Anath, a goddess of the Canaanites.</p>