### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gammâd**, represented by `{{H1575}}`, defines a type of **warrior**. It appears just **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in scripture, identifying a specific group known as the **Gammadims**. The term itself is derived from a root suggesting the grasping of weapons.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H1575}}` is used to identify the **Gammadims** as defenders of the city of Tyre. In Ezekiel's prophecy, they are described as being in the city's **towers** `{{H4026}}` while the men of Arvad `{{H719}}` and Tyre's army `{{H2428}}` were on the walls `{{H2346}}`. Their presence, marked by hanging their shields `{{H7982}}` on the walls, contributed to the city's "perfect" beauty `{{H3308}}` [[Ezekiel 27:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the surrounding text provide a fuller picture of the military and defensive context:
* `{{H4026}}` **migdâl** (a tower): The Gammadims were stationed in the **towers** of Tyre [[Ezekiel 27:11]]. This word denotes a high, defensive structure, and is used both literally, as in the tower of Babel [[Genesis 11:4]], and figuratively, as in the name of the LORD being a strong **tower** [[Proverbs 18:10]].
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall of protection): The Gammadims were part of the defense of Tyre's **walls**. This term signifies a protective barrier and is used for both physical fortifications [[Nehemiah 2:17]] and for God’s divine protection, as a **wall** of fire [[Zechariah 2:5]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (army, strength, valor): The Gammadims were part of Tyre's defensive forces, mentioned alongside its **army** [[Ezekiel 27:11]]. This word broadly encompasses the concept of a force, including military power, valor, and strength [[Habakkuk 3:19]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1575}}` has a limited direct theological role, its context within the prophecy against Tyre carries significant weight.
* **Human Strength vs. Divine Refuge:** The Gammadims were in Tyre's **towers** `{{H4026}}`, symbols of human-built security. This stands in contrast to the theological principle that the name of the LORD is the only true "strong **tower**" [[Proverbs 18:10]].
* **The Vanity of Earthly Might:** The Gammadims were part of Tyre's formidable **army** `{{H2428}}`. However, scripture elsewhere clarifies that ultimate victory and security come "Not by might... but by my spirit, saith the LORD" [[Zechariah 4:6]].
* **Pride in Perishable Beauty:** The actions of the Gammadims and others "made thy **beauty** `{{H3308}}` perfect" [[Ezekiel 27:11]]. This very beauty became a source of pride and trust, yet scripture warns that such **beauty** is vain and can lead to a downfall ([[Proverbs 31:30]], [[Ezekiel 16:15]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1575}}` **gammâd** identifies a group of warriors, the **Gammadims**, in its single biblical mention. They are portrayed as elite defenders stationed in the towers of Tyre, contributing to the city's military might and perfected beauty. Though specific, their role serves a larger theological purpose within Ezekiel's prophecy, illustrating the pride and self-reliance of a powerful city. The Gammadims, as part of Tyre's impressive defenses, ultimately represent the insufficiency of human strength when contrasted with the ultimate authority and power of God.
TRV