### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **biqʻâh**, represented by `{{H1237}}`, refers to a **plain, valley**. It is properly defined as a split, or more specifically, a wide level valley between mountains. It appears **20 times** across **20 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1237}}` is frequently used to describe specific geographical locations. It identifies the **valley** of Lebanon [[Joshua 11:17]], the **plain** of Ono [[Nehemiah 6:2]], and the **valley** of Megiddo, a site of significant battle and mourning ([[2 Chronicles 35:22]], [[Zechariah 12:11]]). The term also sets the scene for key historical events, such as when people journeying from the east found a **plain** in the land of Shinar and dwelt there [[Genesis 11:2]]. Prophetically, it is the setting for divine revelation, as when Ezekiel is set down in a **valley** full of bones [[Ezekiel 37:1]] and beholds the glory of the LORD in the **plain** [[Ezekiel 3:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the landscape where a `{{H1237}}` is found:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): This word is often used in contrast to `{{H1237}}`, highlighting the varied topography of a region, such as "a land of **hills** and **valleys**" [[Deuteronomy 11:11]] or in God's creative act where waters go down by the **valleys** and up by the **mountains** [[Psalms 104:8]].
* `{{H1516}}` **gayʼ** (valley): A term for a gorge, it is used alongside `{{H1237}}` in prophetic descriptions of the landscape being transformed, where every **valley (gay')** is exalted and rough places are made a **plain (biqʻâh)** [[Isaiah 40:4]].
* `{{H3603}}` **kikkâr** (plain): This word, also meaning plain, is used to describe the region of the Jordan. It appears alongside `{{H1237}}` in the description of "the **plain (kikkâr)** of the **valley (biqʻâh)** of Jericho" [[Deuteronomy 34:3]].
* `{{H1389}}` **gibʻâh** (hill): This word for a hillock or little hill is often set in opposition to a valley or plain, as when Isaiah prophesies that every mountain and **hill** shall be made low [[Isaiah 40:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1237}}` is seen in its role as a setting for God's actions among humanity.
* **Setting for Divine Encounter:** The **plain** or **valley** is repeatedly a location where God's glory appears and where He speaks directly to His prophets. Ezekiel is brought to the **plain** to see the glory of the LORD and to receive His word ([[Ezekiel 3:22-23]], [[Ezekiel 8:4]]).
* **Symbol of Divine Restoration:** In prophetic promises, the **valley** is a place of transformation and blessing. God promises to open fountains in the midst of the **valleys** and make the dry land springs of water [[Isaiah 41:18]]. The Spirit of the LORD causes His people to rest, like a beast going down into the **valley** [[Isaiah 63:14]].
* **Place of Significant Events:** Historically and prophetically, the **valley** is the stage for pivotal moments in Israel's story, from the settling in the **plain** of Shinar [[Genesis 11:2]] to the site of a great mourning in the **valley** of Megiddon [[Zechariah 12:11]]. It is also where God executes judgment, as when He promises to cut off the inhabitant from the **plain** of Aven [[Amos 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **biqʻâh** `{{H1237}}` defines not just a topographical feature but a significant landscape in the biblical narrative. As a **plain** or **valley**, it is the setting for the establishment of civilizations [[Genesis 11:2]], the scene of decisive battles [[2 Chronicles 35:22]], and a place of profound divine revelation [[Ezekiel 37:1]]. It represents both the low, dry places in need of God's life-giving water [[Isaiah 41:18]] and the level ground where His glory is made manifest.
TRV