or (shortened) גַּי; probably (by transmutation) from the same root as גֵּוָה (abbreviated); a gorge (from its lofty sides; hence, narrow, but not a gully or winter-torrent); valley.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gayʼ**, represented by `{{H1516}}`, refers to a **gorge** or **valley**. Its definition specifies a narrow passage, distinguished from a gully or winter-torrent, and framed by lofty sides. It appears **60 times** across **54 unique verses** in the Bible, often denoting specific geographical locations or serving as a powerful metaphor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H1516}}` is used in several significant contexts. It famously appears metaphorically in Psalms as a place of profound trial, with the psalmist walking through the "**valley** of the shadow of death" yet fearing no evil [[Psalms 23:4]]. Geographically, it often designates the "**valley** of the son of Hinnom," a site notorious for idolatrous practices, including child sacrifice ([[Jeremiah 32:35]], [[2 Kings 23:10]]). In prophecy, it can be a place of divine intervention, as when the Mount of Olives splits to form a great **valley** of escape [[Zechariah 14:4-5]], or when every **valley** is to be exalted in preparation for the Lord [[Isaiah 40:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the topography and landscape where `{{H1516}}` is found:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): This is the direct topographical opposite of a valley and often appears in contrast to it. For example, prophecy declares that every **valley** will be exalted and every **mountain** made low [[Isaiah 40:4]].
* `{{H1389}}` **gibʻâh** (hill): Similar to a mountain, a **hill** is a raised landform frequently mentioned alongside valleys to describe the terrain that will be reshaped by God's power ([[Isaiah 40:4]], [[Ezekiel 6:3]]).
* `{{H6010}}` **ʻêmeq** (vale, valley): This term describes a broad depression or vale, in contrast to the narrow gorge of `{{H1516}}`. Scripture sometimes uses both terms in the same passage to distinguish between different types of valleys [[Joshua 15:8]].
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (stream, valley): While also translated as valley, a **nachal** is specifically a valley containing a stream or winter torrent. In contrast, the definition for `{{H1516}}` specifies it is *not* a gully or winter-torrent. Nehemiah mentions moving along a **brook** `{{H5158}}` before returning via the **valley** `{{H1516}}` gate [[Nehemiah 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1516}}` is primarily linked to its depiction of both human depravity and divine action.
* **Place of Abomination and Judgment:** The "**valley** of the son of Hinnom" stands as a symbol of humanity's worst sins. As a consequence, God renames it the "**valley** of slaughter," turning a place of false worship into a site of divine judgment ([[Jeremiah 7:32]], [[Jeremiah 19:6]]).
* **Symbol of Deep Trial:** The "valley of the shadow of death" serves as a universal metaphor for life's darkest and most perilous journeys, through which a believer is sustained by God's presence [[Psalms 23:4]].
* **Arena for Divine Restoration:** Prophetic passages transform the valley from a low place into a scene of future glory. The promise that every **valley** shall be exalted signifies God's power to level all obstacles and prepare a way for salvation and the restoration of His people [[Isaiah 40:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1516}}` is far more than a simple geographical descriptor. It is a word rich with theological meaning, representing the lowest points of both the physical landscape and the human experience. From the literal gorge of Hinnom, a site of horrific sin, to the metaphorical valley of despair in the Psalms, **gayʼ** powerfully illustrates themes of judgment, severe trial, and ultimately, the hope of divine intervention and restoration.
TRV