The Hebrew word ʼĂdôwrayim, represented by H115, is the name for Adoraim, a place in Palestine. The name is derived from a root suggesting eminence and means "double mound." It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, identifying it as a specific location.
In its sole biblical appearance, H115 is listed among a series of cities in Judah. The verse states, "And Adoraim, and Lachish, and Azekah" 2 Chronicles 11:9. This grouping places it in the company of other significant locations. The dossier confirms that its companion cities, Lachish and Azekah, were considered "defenced cities" of Judah, which underscores the strategic importance of the region where Adoraim was situated Jeremiah 34:7.
Several related place names appear alongside Adoraim, defining its geographical context:
- H3923 Lâkîysh (Lachish): A place in Palestine, mentioned with Adoraim and Azekah in 2 Chronicles 11:9. It is later described as one of the last remaining "defenced cities" of Judah during the Babylonian invasion Jeremiah 34:7.
- H5825 ʻĂzêqâh (Azekah): Meaning "tilled," this was a place in Palestine. It is listed with Adoraim and Lachish as a fortified location and is also identified as one of Judah's last "defenced cities" (2 Chronicles 11:9, Jeremiah 34:7).
While not a theological term, the significance of H115 is found in its contribution to the historical and geographical record of scripture.
- Strategic Location: Its inclusion in the list found in 2 Chronicles 11:9 alongside major fortified cities like Lachish and Azekah indicates its military importance within the defensive framework of the kingdom of Judah.
- Geographic Marker: The name Adoraim, meaning "double mound," points to a specific physical feature, anchoring the biblical narrative in a tangible, real-world landscape.
- Component of Judah's Defense: The direct association with Lachish and Azekah, which are elsewhere identified as critical defensive sites Jeremiah 34:7, places Adoraim within Judah's network of fortified cities.
In summary, H115 ʼĂdôwrayim is a specific place name whose importance is derived entirely from its context. Though mentioned only once, its association with the fortified cities of Lachish and Azekah marks it as a site of strategic value to the kingdom of Judah. It serves as an example of how even minor geographical references help construct the detailed historical setting of the Bible.
TRV