The Hebrew word Gûwr-Baʻal, represented by H1485, is a proper name for a location meaning dwelling of Baal. Derived from the words גּוּר and בַּעַל, it refers to a place in Arabia. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference.
The single appearance of H1485 is in 2 Chronicles 26:7. The context is a record of divine assistance given to King Uzziah. The verse states that God H430 helped H5826 him in his conflicts against the Philistines H6430 and specifically against "the Arabians H6163 that dwelt H3427 in Gurbaal H1485, and the Mehunims H4586." Here, Gur-Baal serves to identify the location of a particular group of adversaries whom God subdued.
Several related words from its sole context help clarify its significance:
- H3427 yâshab (to dwell, to remain): This word is used to describe the inhabitants of Gur-Baal, specifying that the Arabians resided there 2 Chronicles 26:7. It reinforces the meaning of Gur-Baal as a dwelling place.
- H5826 ʻâzar (to help, succour): This action is central to the narrative where Gur-Baal is mentioned. It describes God's direct intervention on behalf of his people against the inhabitants of this place 2 Chronicles 26:7.
- H6163 ʻĂrâbîy (an Arabian): This term identifies the specific people who inhabited Gur-Baal, positioning them as adversaries alongside the Philistines in this historical account 2 Chronicles 26:7.
While mentioned only once, the name H1485 carries theological weight within its context.
- Divine Sovereignty: The account demonstrates God's power over all nations. His help was not limited by geography or the strength of the enemy, extending even to a place identified as Gur-Baal 2 Chronicles 26:7.
- Conflict with Idolatry: The name "dwelling of Baal" explicitly connects the location to the worship of the false god Baal. The victory over its inhabitants serves to underscore the supremacy of God over rival deities.
- Historical Specificity: The term functions as a precise geographical marker, grounding the biblical account in a specific historical conflict against a coalition of enemies, including the Arabians who lived there.
In summary, H1485 Gûwr-Baʻal is more than just an obscure place name. Though it appears only once, its meaning, "dwelling of Baal," and its context in 2 Chronicles 26:7 are significant. It serves as a backdrop to illustrate God's faithfulness and power to deliver His people from their enemies, reinforcing the theme that no group or foreign god can stand against Him.
TRV