or (shortened) גִּחוֹן; from גִּיחַlemma גּיחַ missing vowel, corrected to גִּיחַ; stream; Gichon, a river of Paradise; also a valley (or pool) near Jerusalem; Gihon.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gîychôwn**, represented by `{{H1521}}`, is defined as a stream. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The name refers to two distinct and significant locations: one of the four rivers flowing from the Garden of Eden, and a vital valley or pool near Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1521}}` first appears as a landmark of the created world. It is named as the second river of Paradise, which "compasseth the whole land of Ethiopia" [[Genesis 2:13]]. Later, a location by the same name near Jerusalem becomes a pivotal site in Israel's history. It is where Solomon was brought to be anointed king, solidifying his succession to David's throne ([[1 Kings 1:33]], [[1 Kings 1:45]]). This same **Gihon** was also the focus of a major engineering project by King Hezekiah, who "stopped the upper watercourse of **Gihon**" to secure Jerusalem's water supply [[2 Chronicles 32:30]]. It is also mentioned as a landmark for the construction of a defensive wall [[2 Chronicles 33:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of Gihon's role as a water source near Jerusalem:
* `{{H5640}}` **çâtham** (to stop up; by implication, to repair; figuratively, to keep secret): This verb is used to describe Hezekiah's action of stopping the flow of Gihon's watercourse as a defensive measure [[2 Chronicles 32:30]].
* `{{H4161}}` **môwtsâʼ** (a going forth... a source or product... a fountain... spring, (water-) course): This noun identifies the specific feature of Gihon that Hezekiah controlled, its "watercourse" or spring [[2 Chronicles 32:30]].
* `{{H3474}}` **yâshar** (to be straight or even; figuratively, to be... right, pleasant, prosperous... make... straight): This root describes how Hezekiah redirected Gihon's water, bringing it "straight down" to the city of David [[2 Chronicles 32:30]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This fundamental word is used in conjunction with `{{H4161}}` to describe the "watercourse" of Gihon, emphasizing its nature as a life-sustaining spring or stream [[2 Chronicles 32:30]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical and historical significance of `{{H1521}}` carries thematic weight in the scriptures.
* **Life-Giving Source:** As one of the rivers of Eden, Gihon symbolizes God's original provision and the life-sustaining power flowing from His presence [[Genesis 2:13]].
* **Site of Royal Anointing:** The Gihon near Jerusalem served as the location for Solomon's consecration as king, linking the place to divine appointment and the legitimacy of the Davidic dynasty ([[1 Kings 1:38]], [[1 Kings 1:45]]).
* **Strategic Providence:** Hezekiah's control over Gihon's waters was a crucial act of faith and wisdom that ensured Jerusalem's survival. The text directly connects this act with divine favor, stating that "Hezekiah prospered in all his works" [[2 Chronicles 32:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1521}}` is a name that connects the Bible's primordial past with its historical national narrative. It represents a source of life, whether flowing through the land of Ethiopia in Genesis or providing water and a place of royal anointing for the city of David. The story of **Gihon** illustrates how a specific location can be a vessel for themes of divine provision, kingly authority, and national deliverance.
TRV