The answer is: Bethel

Jdg 20:18

Bethel, translating to "House of God," plays an intriguing role in biblical history as a site of divine encounter. Its name is distinctly derived from two Hebrew words: "Bayit," meaning house, and "El," which succinctly signifies God. Located north of Jerusalem, it's steeped in stories throughout the Old Testament, most notably featuring in the journeys of the patriarch Jacob.

In Genesis 28, Jacob dreams of a ladder reaching heaven while at Bethel, invoking the presence of God. This experience profoundly underscores the idea that God is not confined to a designated place; rather, accessibility to the divine can be experienced even in unexpected locations. Interestingly, Bethel was considered a contrast to the later site of Jerusalem, hinting at a time when the Israelites carried semantic and theological richness in their geographic choices.

Trivia buffs might love that Bethel’s narrative even hints at the spiritual evolution of the Israelites. Once (in Judges 20:18) it stood as a site signaling divine guidance for warfare strategies. By the time of the Southern Kingdom's influence, Bethel had sadly became known for idolatrous practices, proving that names and places can bear both blessings and burdens.

To this day, places named Bethel worldwide reflect this heritage, reaffirming the sense that divine presence can be found wherever believers choose to gather and contemplate spirituality.