### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gᵉbûwlâh**, represented by `{{H1367}}`, is a term for a **boundary, region, or landmark**. As the feminine form of `{{H1366}}` *gᵉbûwl*, it denotes a border, coast, or defined place. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible, often in the context of territorial and divine limits.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1367}}` primarily defines the borders of land and nations as established by God. It delineates the "coasts" of Canaan, the land promised to Israel as their inheritance ([[Numbers 34:2]], [[Numbers 34:12]]). The term is also used to describe the specific "coasts" allocated to the tribes of Israel, such as Benjamin [[Joshua 18:20]] and the tribes receiving land east of the Jordan [[Numbers 32:33]]. The concept extends beyond just national lines; it can also refer to a specific, appointed "place" for crops [[Isaiah 28:25]]. The act of transgressing these lines is condemned, as seen when the wicked "remove the landmarks" [[Job 24:2]] or when an arrogant king boasts, "I have removed the bounds of the people" [[Isaiah 10:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of boundaries and limits:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl**: This is the masculine form, meaning "a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed." It is used in the prayer of Jabez to "enlarge my coast" [[1 Chronicles 4:10]] and to describe the "bound" God placed for the sea [[Jeremiah 5:22]].
* `{{H1379}}` **gâbal**: This primitive root means "to bound (as by a line); be border, set (bounds about)." It is the action of creating a boundary, such as when God commanded Moses to "set bounds" around Mount Sinai [[Exodus 19:23]].
* `{{H5324}}` **nâtsab**: Meaning "to station... erect, establish... set (over, up)," this verb describes the firm establishment of boundaries. It is used in the declaration that God "set the bounds" of the nations [[Deuteronomy 32:8]].
* `{{H5493}}` **çûwr**: A root meaning "to turn off... depart... remove." This word describes the violation of a boundary, as when the king of Assyria boasts that he has "removed" the bounds of the people [[Isaiah 10:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1367}}` is centered on divine order and covenant faithfulness.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word underscores God's absolute authority over creation and history. He is the one who "set all the borders of the earth" [[Psalms 74:17]] and who "set the bounds of the people" when He divided their inheritance to the nations [[Deuteronomy 32:8]].
* **Covenant Inheritance:** Boundaries are a tangible sign of God's covenant with Israel. The "coasts" of Canaan represent the physical fulfillment of His promise of land [[Numbers 34:2]]. The division of the land "by their coasts" was the final step in giving the Israelites their inheritance [[Joshua 19:49]].
* **Sanctity and Justice:** The establishment of a "landmark" creates a sacred line that should not be crossed. The removal of these markers is portrayed as a wicked act of theft and disorder [[Job 24:2]], while removing national boundaries is an act of arrogant conquest that defies the divine order [[Isaiah 10:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1367}}` is more than a geographical term. It represents the divinely appointed order of the world, from the shores of the sea to the borders of nations. It serves as a physical marker of God's covenant promises to His people and stands as a principle of justice and stability. The concept of **gᵉbûwlâh** illustrates that both the natural world and human society are meant to function within the limits established by a sovereign Creator.
TRV