; the same as גֶּדֶר; Geder, a place in Palestine; Geder.
Transliteration:Geder
Pronunciation:gheh'-der
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1445}}` (Geder) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition indicates it is "the same as `{{H1447}}`," which refers to a "wall" or "fence," or "enclosure." Thus, `{{H1445}}` likely signifies a "walled place" or "enclosed place," reflecting the common practice of fortifying ancient settlements. As a proper noun, its semantic range is restricted to this specific location in ancient Canaan. It does not carry a broader conceptual meaning beyond its designation of a particular city-state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1445}}` (Geder) appears once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Joshua:
* [[Joshua 12:13]]: "the king of Geder, one."
This occurrence is found within the extensive list of kings and their cities that Joshua and the Israelites conquered during the initial phase of the conquest of Canaan. The mention of "the king of Geder" indicates that Geder was a distinct city-state with its own ruler, possessing sufficient prominence to be included in this significant historical record. Its inclusion in this list underscores its status as one of the many fortified strongholds that fell before the advancing Israelite forces, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the conquest as described in Joshua. The context places Geder firmly within the geographical and political landscape of central or southern Canaan, though its exact location is not precisely identified beyond this reference.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H1445}}` (Geder) lies with its etymological root, `{{H1447}}` (gader), meaning "wall" or "fence," and `{{H1448}}` (gaderah), meaning "wall" or "enclosure." These common nouns directly inform the likely meaning of the place name. Other related geographical terms that share this root or concept include:
* `{{H1448}}` (Gederah): A town mentioned in [[Joshua 15:36]] as part of the inheritance of Judah.
* `{{H1450}}` (Gedor): Another town, also in the territory of Judah, mentioned in [[Joshua 15:58]] and [[1 Chronicles 4:4]], [[1 Chronicles 4:18]].
Conceptually, `{{H1445}}` relates to the broader biblical theme of "walled cities" (e.g., Jericho, Ai), which were characteristic features of ancient Near Eastern urban centers, designed for defense and security. The repeated presence of place names derived from "wall" or "fence" highlights the strategic importance of fortifications in the ancient world.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1445}}` (Geder) is a geographical marker rather than a term with inherent theological meaning, its singular mention in [[Joshua 12:13]] contributes significantly to the broader theological narrative of the Book of Joshua.
1. **Fulfillment of Divine Promise:** The conquest of Geder, alongside numerous other city-states, serves as tangible evidence of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants the land of Canaan ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18-21]]). The meticulous listing of conquered kings and territories, including Geder, affirms the comprehensive nature of this divine act of provision.
2. **Divine Sovereignty Over Human Fortifications:** The name "Geder" itself, suggesting a "walled place," subtly underscores the theological principle that no human stronghold or defensive measure can ultimately withstand the sovereign power of God. Even a "walled city" with its own king was ultimately subdued by the divine will operating through Joshua and the Israelite army. This reinforces the message that true security and victory come from reliance on God, not on human strength or fortifications.
3. **Historical Veracity:** The inclusion of such specific, albeit briefly mentioned, geographical details like Geder lends historical depth and veracity to the biblical account, grounding the theological narrative in concrete historical events.
### Summary
`{{H1445}}` (Geder) is a Hebrew proper noun designating a specific city-state in ancient Canaan. Derived from the root meaning "wall" or "fence," its name likely signifies a "walled place." It appears uniquely in [[Joshua 12:13]], where its king is listed among those defeated by Joshua during the Israelite conquest. Theologically, Geder serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises regarding the land of Canaan and illustrates divine sovereignty over human fortifications. Its inclusion in the meticulous record of conquered territories underscores the historical and theological reliability of the biblical narrative of the conquest.
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