### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gômed**, represented by `{{H1574}}`, is a specific term for a unit of measurement, defined as a **cubit** or span. It is derived from an unused root that appears to mean "to grasp." This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H1574}}` occurs in the story of Ehud, the judge who delivered Israel from the Moabites. The scripture specifies the dimensions of the weapon he crafted for this purpose, stating he "made him a dagger which had two edges, of a **cubit** length" [[Judges 3:16]]. This specific detail emphasizes the concealable nature of the dagger, which Ehud girded on his right thigh, allowing him to carry out his mission.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context provide a fuller picture of measurement and instruments:
* `{{H753}}` **ʼôrek** (length): This word is used alongside `{{H1574}}` in [[Judges 3:16]] to specify the dagger's "**length**". While used here for a physical dimension, it is more frequently used to describe the **length** of days or long life, as in God's promise of salvation [[Psalms 91:16]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword, dagger, knife): This is the object being measured by a **gômed**. As a cutting instrument, **chereb** can refer to a personal **dagger** [[Judges 3:16]], a warrior's **sword** [[1 Samuel 17:45]], or a metaphor for divine judgment and warfare [[Zechariah 13:7]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1574}}` is found entirely within its unique narrative context.
* **Narrative Precision:** The use of a specific measurement like **gômed** grounds the story of Ehud in tangible reality. It highlights the deliberate planning and preparation involved in this act of deliverance.
* **Instrument of Deliverance:** The word defines the tool used to execute God's plan to free Israel. A weapon of a specific **cubit** length becomes the key instrument in a pivotal moment of the nation's history [[Judges 3:16]].
* **Concrete vs. Abstract Measurement:** While the related term `{{H753}}` **ʼôrek** often describes abstract concepts like the "length of days" [[Deuteronomy 30:20]], `{{H1574}}` provides a concrete, physical dimension. This shows how scripture uses language of measurement for both physical and spiritual realities.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1574}}` **gômed** is a highly specific term for a **cubit**. Its importance comes not from frequent use but from its single, impactful appearance. By providing the exact length of Ehud's dagger, it adds a layer of detail and realism to a key story of deliverance, illustrating how precise, physical elements are woven into the fabric of the biblical narrative.
TRV