現代歷史研究和考古學或許能為貝特耳和丹聖地的建立提供與《列王紀上》不同的詮釋。

然而可以肯定的是，以色列第一位君王的選擇最終導致百姓陷入偶像崇拜，因為選擇這樣的聖地存在著宗教融合的風險，而這種風險最終變成了現實。

即使在今天，政治考量甚至對成功的渴望也可能導致一些選擇，最終危及信徒群體的信仰。因此，在許多情況下，遵循正確的傳統才是更好的選擇，即使這些傳統看起來不夠明智或成功。

Modern historical research and archeology may offer, for the establishment of the shrines of Bethel and Dan, explanations that differ from the ones offered by the Book of Kings.

It is certain, however, that the choices of the first king of Israel led the people to idolatry, because of the risk of syncretism involved in the choice of such shrines, a risk that became reality.

Even now, political calculations or even the need of success may lead to choices that in the end become a danger for the faith of the community of believers. In many circumstances, it is better to follow the sound traditions, even if they may appear as not smart or successful enough.