This is the region where Sheba rebelled and formed a power base.
2 Samuel 20:14Sheba) passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel), to Beth Maacah, and to all the Berites; and all the people gathered together and followed him.2 Samuel 20:15So they came and besieged him in Abel) of Beth Maacah, and they cast up a siege mound against the city, and it stood against the outer wall; and all the people who were with Joab) were battering the wall to throw it down.2 Samuel 20:16Then a wise woman called from the city, “Hear, hear! Tell Joab), ‘Come here, that I may speak with you.’”2 Samuel 20:17So Joab) approached her, and the woman said, “Are you Joab)?” He answered, “I am.” Then she said to him, “Listen to the words of your servant.” He answered, “I am listening.”2 Samuel 20:18Then she spoke, saying, “They used to say in former times, ‘Let them inquire at Abel),’ and so they finished the matter.