Numbers 32:38

38 and Nevo, and Ba`al-Me`on, (their names being changed,) and Sivmah: and they gave other names to the cities which they built.

Numbers 32:38 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 32:38

And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,)
&c.] For Nebo was the name of an idol, after which perhaps the city was called: Baalmeon signifies "Baal's habitation", and where it is highly probable was a temple of his; and the children of Reuben, not liking to retain such idolatrous names, gave them others, but what they were it is not said; and certain it is, that when these places came into the hands of the Moabites, their ancient names were restored to them, as appears from ( Isaiah 15:2 ) ( Jeremiah 48:23 )

and Shibmah;
the same with Shebam, ( Numbers 32:3 ) , and gave other names unto the cities which they built; but they are neither known, nor did they always continue, as has been observed.

Numbers 32:38 In-Context

36 and Beit-Nimrah, and Beth-haran: fortified cities, and folds for sheep.

37 The children of Re'uven built Heshbon, and El`aleh, and Kiryatayim,

38 and Nevo, and Ba`al-Me`on, (their names being changed,) and Sivmah: and they gave other names to the cities which they built.

39 The children of Makhir the son of Menashsheh went to Gil`ad, and took it, and dispossessed the Amori who were therein.

40 Moshe gave Gil`ad to Makhir the son of Menashsheh; and he lived therein.