### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bounós**, represented by `{{G1015}}`, is a specific term for a **hillock** or **hill**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, making its usage both rare and significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G1015}}` is always paired with "mountains" to describe significant topographical and spiritual changes. In [[Luke 3:5]], it is used in a prophecy about preparing the way for the Lord, where every mountain and **hill** shall be brought low. This verse speaks of a radical leveling to make a path straight. The second instance, in [[Luke 23:30]], depicts a scene of great dread, where people will call upon the mountains to fall on them and the **hills** to cover them in the face of judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of `{{G1015}}`:
* `{{G3735}}` **óros** (a mountain): This word is used in direct parallel with **hill** in both of its appearances, representing a larger elevation. It can refer to physical locations like the Mount of Olives [[Matthew 24:3]] or be used metaphorically for great obstacles [[1 Corinthians 13:2]].
* `{{G5013}}` **tapeinóō** (to depress; figuratively, to humiliate): This describes the action applied to the **hill** in [[Luke 3:5]], where it "shall be brought low." The word carries a strong sense of abasement and humbling [[Matthew 23:12]].
* `{{G2572}}` **kalýptō** (to cover up): In [[Luke 23:30]], people cry out for the **hills** to "cover" them. This term is used for hiding things, whether it is covering a multitude of sins [[1 Peter 4:8]] or concealing something that will later be revealed [[Matthew 10:26]].
* `{{G5327}}` **pháranx** (a gap or chasm, i.e. ravine): Used in [[Luke 3:5]], this word for "valley" provides a direct contrast to the elevated **hill**, emphasizing the complete transformation of the landscape where low places are filled and high places are brought down.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1015}}` is derived from its powerful, symbolic usage in its two appearances.
* **Humbling of the Proud:** The leveling of every **hill** in [[Luke 3:5]] serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual preparation. It illustrates the necessity of humbling oneself and removing the pride that stands as an obstacle to God. This theme is reinforced by the use of `{{G5013}}` tapeinóō, which consistently refers to abasing the exalted [[Luke 14:11]].
* **Terror of Judgment:** The plea for the **hills** to cover people in [[Luke 23:30]] is a vivid depiction of the terror that accompanies divine judgment. It signifies a moment of ultimate desperation where concealment is sought from an inescapable reality.
* **Radical Transformation:** The imagery in [[Luke 3:5]], where valleys are filled and hills are lowered, points to the radical and complete nature of the change required for the Lord's coming. It's not a minor adjustment but a total reordering of the spiritual landscape.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1015}}` **bounós** is a rare word, its appearances are highly impactful. It functions as more than just a geographical feature; it is a potent symbol in biblical prophecy and eschatology. Paired with mountains, it is used to illustrate profound theological truths, from the need for human pride to be humbled before God [[Luke 3:5]] to the abject fear of facing divine judgment [[Luke 23:30]]. Through these two verses, the simple word for **hill** contributes to a deeper understanding of spiritual readiness and accountability.
TRV