### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bôkîym**, represented by `{{H1066}}`, literally means "the weepers." It is derived from the plural active participle of the verb for weeping. In the biblical text, it is used exclusively as a place name, Bochim, in Palestine. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, marking a specific location of great emotional and spiritual significance for Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The context for `{{H1066}}` is a pivotal moment in the book of Judges. An angel of the LORD comes to the people of Israel and delivers a message of rebuke, reminding them that God brought them out of Egypt and into the land He **swore** to their fathers [[Judges 2:1]]. In response to this message, the people weep. The place is then named **Bochim** to commemorate this event, and they **sacrificed** there to the LORD [[Judges 2:5]]. The name itself captures the people's sorrowful reaction to being confronted with their disobedience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a deeper understanding of the events at Bochim:
* `{{H4397}}` **mălʼâk** (angel, messenger): This word describes the divine agent who delivered God's message. The term can refer to an **angel** of God, a prophet, or a priest [[Exodus 23:20]]. In this case, the **angel** of the LORD [[Judges 2:1]] acts as a direct envoy from God.
* `{{H7650}}` **shâbaʻ** (swear): This root word is central to the angel's message, which recalls the covenant God **sware** to the patriarchs [[Judges 2:1]]. It signifies a solemn oath or promise, like the one God made to Abraham [[Genesis 26:3]].
* `{{H2076}}` **zâbach** (to sacrifice): This term describes the people's response after weeping. To **sacrifice** is to slaughter an animal, usually for a religious offering [[Judges 2:5]]. This action often signifies repentance, worship, or an attempt to restore fellowship with God [[Psalms 4:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1066}}` is tied to the concepts of divine faithfulness, human failure, and repentance.
* **Divine Confrontation:** The event at **Bochim** begins with a direct confrontation initiated by God through His **angel{H4397}**. The message highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to the covenant He **swore{H7650}** to their fathers [[Judges 2:1]].
* **Repentant Sorrow:** The name **Bochim**, "the weepers," permanently marks the site as a place of national mourning and sorrow over sin. The act of **calling{H7121}** the place by this name serves as a memorial of their emotional response to God's rebuke [[Judges 2:5]].
* **Worship as a Response:** The narrative concludes with the people offering sacrifices to the **LORD{H3068}** [[Judges 2:5]]. This act demonstrates that true repentance is not just sorrow, but is followed by a turning back to God in worship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1066}}` is not merely a geographical location but a symbol of a crucial interaction between God and Israel. The name Bochim, "the weepers," encapsulates a moment where divine rebuke led to communal sorrow and a subsequent act of worship. It serves as a powerful reminder of God’s covenant fidelity and the appropriate human response of repentance when confronted with disobedience.
TRV