### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gᵉdêrôthayim**, represented by `{{H1453}}`, refers to a specific location in Palestine named Gederothaim. Based on its root, it means **double wall**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term is the dual form of גְּדֵרָה (Gederah), signifying a pair of enclosures or a doubly fortified place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H1453}}` is found in a list detailing the territorial allotment for the tribe of Judah. In this context, **Gederothaim** is named as one of fourteen cities assigned to Judah in the plains. The passage records it alongside several other towns: "And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and **Gederothaim**; fourteen cities with their villages" [[Joshua 15:36]]. Its appearance here serves a geographical and historical purpose, marking a specific boundary and possession within the Promised Land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H1453}}` is illuminated by several other Hebrew words used in the same verse:
* `{{H1449}}` **Gᵉdêrâh** (Gederah, a place in Palestine; Gederah, hedges): This place is listed immediately before Gederothaim, and `{{H1453}}` is its grammatical dual, suggesting a close relationship or proximity between the two locations [[Joshua 15:36]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city... city, court, town): This word categorizes Gederothaim as one of the **cities** that were part of the inheritance of Judah [[Joshua 15:36]].
* `{{H2691}}` **châtsêr** (a yard... court, tower, village): This term is used to describe the settlements surrounding the main cities, clarifying that the inheritance included the cities "with their **villages**" [[Joshua 15:36]].
* `{{H8189}}` **Shaʻărayim** (Shaarajim, a place in Palestine; Shaaraim): One of the other cities listed in the same group as Gederothaim, helping to define this specific district within Judah's territory [[Joshua 15:36]].
* `{{H5723}}` **ʻĂdîythayim** (Adithajim, a place in Palestine; Adithaim): Another city mentioned in the same list, reinforcing the role of this passage as a detailed geographical ledger [[Joshua 15:36]].
### Theological Significance
While not a term with direct theological exposition, the inclusion of `{{H1453}}` in scripture carries significance based on its context:
* **Record of Inheritance:** The mention of **Gederothaim** is part of a meticulous record documenting the fulfillment of God's covenant promise to give the land of Canaan to the tribes of Israel. Its inclusion in the list for Judah authenticates the tribe's specific portion [[Joshua 15:36]].
* **Geographical Grounding:** By naming specific **cities** `{{H5892}}` like Gederothaim, the biblical narrative is grounded in a tangible, geographical reality. The name itself, "double wall," implies a known, likely fortified, settlement.
* **Completeness of Provision:** The enumeration of "fourteen cities with their villages" [[Joshua 15:36]], including **Gederothaim**, highlights the comprehensive nature of God's provision for His people, detailing the inheritance down to specific towns.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1453}}` **Gederothaim** is a place name whose importance lies in its singular appearance within the biblical text. While its meaning of "double wall" hints at its physical characteristics, its primary function is not symbolic but historical and geographical. It serves as a precise marker in the official record of the land allotment to Judah, underscoring the reality and specificity of God's fulfillment of His covenant promises to Israel.
TRV