### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ioudá**, represented by `{{G2448}}`, is a term of Hebrew origin that identifies **Judah**, a specific region within Palestine. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting its role as a key geographical setting. The word designates Judah as a distinct part of or place in Palestine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2448}}` is used to pinpoint significant locations. It is described as a region containing a "hill country" and at least one city, as Mary "went into the hill country with haste, into a city of **Juda**" [[Luke 1:39]]. The term is also central to the prophecy concerning the birthplace of the Messiah, identifying Bethlehem as being "in the land of **Juda**" [[Matthew 2:6]]. This passage emphasizes its importance by mentioning the "princes of **Juda**," tying the region to leadership and governance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide geographic and demographic context for `{{G2448}}`:
* `{{G965}}` **Bēthleém** (Bethleem (i.e. Beth-lechem), a place in Palestine:--Bethlehem): This specific town is located within the broader region of **Juda**. It is from Bethlehem in **Juda** that a prophesied Governor is expected to come [[Matthew 2:6]].
* `{{G2474}}` **Israḗl** (Israel (i.e. Jisrael), the adopted name of Jacob, including his descendants (literally or figuratively):--Israel): The people of **Israel** are the subjects of the ruler who comes from **Juda**. The prophecy states that this Governor will "rule my people **Israel**" [[Matthew 2:6]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical and prophetic significance of `{{G2448}}` is notable in the New Testament.
* **Prophetic Landmark:** The land of **Juda** serves as the setting for prophetic fulfillment. It is explicitly named as the territory from which the promised Governor of Israel would arise [[Matthew 2:6]].
* **Region of Rulership:** The term is associated with authority, being home to the "princes of **Juda**." This establishes it not just as a geographical area but as a domain connected to leadership.
* **A Key Destination:** **Juda** is presented as a destination of great importance, being the place Mary traveled to with haste and the region specified in the prophecy about the ruler of Israel ([[Luke 1:39]], [[Matthew 2:6]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2448}}` functions as a crucial geographical marker with deep prophetic weight. While used infrequently, it precisely defines the territory—the land of **Juda**—that is central to the nativity narrative. It connects a physical place to divine purpose, identifying the region that would produce the prophesied Governor destined to rule the people of Israel.
TRV