feminine of בָּלֶה; failure; Balah, a place in Palestine; Balah.
Transliteration:Bâlâh
Pronunciation:baw-law'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1088}}` (Bâlâh) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location in ancient Israel. Its base definition indicates it is the feminine form of `{{H1086}}` (baleh), which carries the core meaning of "worn out," "decayed," "old," or "failing." While the etymological root suggests concepts of deterioration or antiquity, `{{H1088}}` itself does not convey this meaning in its biblical usage as a place name. Rather, it simply identifies a town. The semantic range is therefore limited to its identity as a specific locality within the tribal allotments of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1088}}` (Bâlâh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Joshua:
* [[Joshua 19:3]]: "And their inheritance was Beer-sheba, and Sheba, and Moladah, and Hazar-shual, and Balah, and Ezem,"
In this sole instance, Balah is listed among the cities allotted to the tribe of Simeon. The context is the detailed account of the division of the land of Canaan among the twelve tribes of Israel, following their conquest under Joshua. Simeon's inheritance was situated within the larger territory of Judah, reflecting a later historical reality where Simeon's tribal identity was largely absorbed into Judah. The meticulous listing of these towns underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham regarding the land inheritance (cf. [[Genesis 15:18-21]]). Balah's inclusion signifies its role as a tangible part of the divine distribution of the Promised Land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relationship for `{{H1088}}` (Bâlâh) is its masculine counterpart, `{{H1086}}` (baleh). This root word is used to describe things that are "worn out" (e.g., clothes in [[Joshua 9:5]], [[Joshua 9:13]]), "old" (e.g., days in [[Job 21:34]]), or "decayed" (e.g., a garment in [[Jeremiah 38:11]]). Other forms of this root can be found in verbs like `{{H1087}}` (balah), meaning "to wear out" or "grow old."
While `{{H1088}}` itself is a place name, the underlying concept of "wearing out" or "decay" is a recurring theme in Scripture, often contrasting the transient nature of creation and human life with the eternal and unchanging character of God (e.g., [[Psalm 102:26-27]], [[Isaiah 51:6]]). In the context of place names, it is not uncommon for locations to bear names that reflect characteristics, history, or even a subtle irony, though for Balah, its primary significance is its geographical identification within the sacred narrative of land distribution.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Balah (`{{H1088}}`) is primarily derived from its inclusion in the detailed account of the tribal allotments in Joshua. This act represents the faithful fulfillment of God's covenant promises to the patriarchs, particularly Abraham, concerning the inheritance of the land of Canaan. Every city named, including Balah, stands as a testament to God's precision, sovereignty, and faithfulness in providing for His people.
Balah's specific mention within Simeon's territory, which was itself encompassed by Judah, illustrates the intricate and divinely ordained order of the Israelite settlement. It underscores the meticulous nature of God's plan and His commitment to establishing His people in the land He had sworn to them. While the root meaning of "decay" or "wearing out" is not directly applied to the theological understanding of the place Balah, its very existence as an inherited city within God's plan subtly contrasts human transience with divine permanence. Even a place potentially named for its age or decline is integrated into the enduring promise of God's inheritance.
### Summary
`{{H1088}}` (Bâlâh) is a Hebrew proper noun, specifically the name of a town in ancient Israel. Derived from a root meaning "worn out" or "decayed" (`{{H1086}}`), its primary biblical function is to identify a specific geographical location. It appears only once in the Bible, in [[Joshua 19:3]], where it is listed as one of the cities allotted to the tribe of Simeon within the territory of Judah. The theological significance of Balah lies in its role as a tangible element in the fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the land inheritance for the Israelites, testifying to His faithfulness and meticulous provision.
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