### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gôwlâh**, represented by `{{H1473}}`, refers to **exile** and, collectively, the **exiles** themselves. It appears 42 times across 41 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning to denude or exile, `{{H1473}}` specifically describes the condition of being carried away captive and the community of people subjected to this removal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1473}}` is central to the experience of Israel's judgment and eventual restoration. The prophet Ezekiel's ministry begins while he is "among the captives" [[Ezekiel 1:1]]. The term is used both literally to describe a forced departure and prophetically as a symbolic act, such as when Ezekiel is commanded to prepare "stuff for removing" to signify a coming exile [[Ezekiel 12:3]]. It also defines the identity of the returning remnant, who are frequently referred to as "the children of the captivity" [[Ezra 4:1]]. The word is often tied to a specific destination, most notably the forced removal of people from Jerusalem to Babylon ([[Jeremiah 29:1]]; [[2 Kings 24:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of exile:
* `{{H1540}}` **gâlâh** (to denude, exile, reveal): This is the primitive root from which `{{H1473}}` is formed. It describes the action of carrying people away into captivity, as when Nebuchadnezzar "had carried away" the people of Judah to Babylon [[Ezra 2:1]].
* `{{H7628}}` **shᵉbîy** (exiled, captive): This word is a close synonym and is sometimes used alongside `{{H1473}}` to emphasize the state of being captured. For example, a prophecy states that a city would be "carried away, she went into captivity" [[Nahum 3:10]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): This verb of motion is often used to describe the act of leaving a place to enter into exile. A prophecy against Jerusalem warns that half of the city "shall go forth into captivity" [[Zechariah 14:2]].
* `{{H894}}` **Bâbel** (Babylon): This is the primary location associated with the exile. It is the destination for those "carried away captive" from Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 29:4]] and the place from which the exiles later return [[Ezra 2:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1473}}` is significant, highlighting themes of judgment, hope, and identity.
* **Divine Judgment:** Captivity is presented as a direct consequence of disobedience and unfaithfulness. Nations like Moab are warned that they will "go forth into captivity" for trusting in their own works instead of God [[Jeremiah 48:7]].
* **Prophetic Warning:** The concept of exile is used by prophets like Ezekiel as a powerful sign to a "rebellious house," demonstrating the reality of God's coming judgment [[Ezekiel 12:3]].
* **Identity of the Remnant:** The experience of exile forges a new identity for God's people. Those who return are identified as "the children of the captivity" [[Ezra 6:19]], who are tasked with rebuilding the temple and separating themselves from the practices of the surrounding nations [[Ezra 6:21]].
* **The Exiled Community:** The word often refers to the specific, collective group of exiles. Prophets like Jeremiah addressed letters directly "to all them of the captivity" to deliver God's message to them in a foreign land [[Jeremiah 29:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1473}}` is a pivotal term in the Old Testament, representing more than just a physical removal. It encapsulates the painful reality of divine judgment for sin, while also defining the community of **exiles** through whom God would preserve a remnant. The word is foundational to understanding the narratives of the prophets and the historical books of Ezra and Nehemiah, illustrating the fall, preservation, and restoration of God's people.
TRV