### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gabnôn**, represented by `{{H1386}}`, refers to **a hump or peak of hills; high**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is specific, describing physically imposing and prominent mountains.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H1386}}` appears exclusively in Psalm 68. It is first used to describe the hill of Bashan as an "**high** hill," establishing its impressive physical stature [[Psalms 68:15]]. Immediately following, the psalmist poses a question to these "**high** hills," asking why they "leap" [[Psalms 68:16]]. This sets up a direct contrast between these imposing peaks and the specific hill which **God** `{{H430}}` has chosen as His dwelling place, where **the LORD** `{{H3068}}` will **dwell** `{{H7931}}` **for ever** `{{H5331}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of `{{H1386}}`:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This is the noun that **gabnôn** directly modifies. In both instances, they appear together to describe a "**high** hill" or "**high** hills" ([[Psalms 68:15]], [[Psalms 68:16]]).
* `{{H1316}}` **Bâshân** (a region East of the Jordan): This term identifies the specific location renowned for its prominent mountains, referred to as "the hill of **Bashan**" and an "**high** hill" [[Psalms 68:15]].
* `{{H7520}}` **râtsad** (probably to look askant, i.e. (figuratively) be jealous; leap): This action is attributed to the "**high** hills," suggesting they "leap" with jealousy or contention in the presence of the hill God has chosen [[Psalms 68:16]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1386}}` carries significant theological weight by creating a powerful contrast.
* **Divine Choice Over Physical Stature:** The word is used to describe majestic, "**high** hills" which are ultimately passed over. This emphasizes that God's chosen dwelling is not determined by worldly greatness but by His own sovereign **desire** `{{H2530}}` and choice [[Psalms 68:16]].
* **Jealousy of the Peaks:** The "**high** hills" are personified as "leaping" `{{H7520}}`, a term which can figuratively mean to be jealous. This portrays the great mountains of the world as vying for divine favor, which is instead bestowed upon the one God desires.
* **The Sanctity of God's Dwelling:** The "high" hills serve as a backdrop to highlight the unique holiness of God's chosen mount. While Bashan is a "**high** hill," it is the other hill that **the LORD** `{{H3068}}` will **dwell** `{{H7931}}` in **for ever** `{{H5331}}`, marking it as a place of eternal, divine presence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1386}}` **gabnôn** is more than a simple descriptor for a tall mountain. It functions as a key element in a poetic argument, representing natural, imposing grandeur. Through its contrast with the hill God chooses for His eternal dwelling [[Psalms 68:16]], the word helps illustrate a profound theological truth: divine favor and holiness are not products of physical might but of God's sovereign will and presence.
TRV