### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H1628}}` (גֵּרוּת, *gêrûwth*) derives from the verb `{{H1481}}` (גּוּר, *gûr*), which signifies "to sojourn," "to dwell as a foreigner," or "to abide temporarily." Consequently, `{{H1628}}` denotes the state or place of a temporary residence, a sojourning, or a habitation that is not permanent. It inherently carries the connotation of being an alien or a stranger in a particular location, emphasizing a transient rather than a settled existence. The word points to a period of dwelling in a land or situation that is not one's native or ultimate home.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1628}}` appears in two distinct and significant contexts within the Hebrew Bible, each illuminating a facet of its meaning:
1. **[[Genesis 47:9]]**: In this poignant passage, Jacob, standing before Pharaoh, describes his life as a *gêrûwth*. He states, "The days of the years of my sojourning (*gêrûwth*) are 130 years. Few and evil have been the days of the years of my life, and they have not attained to the days of the years of my fathers in the days of their sojourning (*gêrûwth*)." Here, *gêrûwth* is used to characterize the entirety of human life on earth as a temporary dwelling. Jacob, as a patriarch, lived a nomadic existence, never fully possessing the Promised Land, reinforcing the idea of life as a journey or pilgrimage. This usage underscores the transient nature of mortal existence and the anticipation of a more permanent dwelling.
2. **[[Psalm 120:5]]**: The psalmist laments, "Woe is me, that I sojourn (*gêrûwth*) in Meshech, that I dwell in the tents of Kedar!" In this context, *gêrûwth* describes a temporary dwelling among hostile and ungodly peoples. The psalmist expresses distress and a sense of alienation, highlighting the spiritual discomfort and longing for a true home experienced by the righteous when living among those who oppose God. This usage emphasizes the *unpleasantness* or *alienation* that can accompany a temporary residence when one is out of place or among adversaries.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H1628}}` is enriched by its relationship to several key biblical terms and theological concepts:
* **`{{H1481}}` (גּוּר, *gûr*)**: The verbal root, meaning "to sojourn, dwell, abide, be a stranger." This verb directly informs the noun's meaning, emphasizing the act of temporary dwelling.
* **`{{H1616}}` (גֵּר, *ger*)**: The noun for "sojourner," "alien," or "foreigner." The *ger* is the person who experiences *gêrûwth*. Old Testament law often commands protection and care for the *ger*, reflecting Israel's own experience of *gêrûwth* in Egypt.
* **`{{H4186}}` (מוֹשָׁב, *môšāb*)**: "Dwelling place, seat, habitation." While also denoting a dwelling, *môšāb* can imply a more settled or permanent residence, thus serving as a contrast to the transient nature of *gêrûwth*.
* **`{{H3427}}` (יָשַׁב, *yāšab*)**: A common verb meaning "to sit, dwell, inhabit." This is the general term for dwelling, but *gêrûwth* adds the specific nuance of temporariness.
* **Pilgrimage and Exile**: The concept of *gêrûwth* resonates deeply with themes of pilgrimage (e.g., the journeys to Jerusalem) and the experience of exile (e.g., the Babylonian captivity), where God's people are displaced and live as sojourners in foreign lands, awaiting their return or ultimate inheritance.
* **New Testament Parallels**: The idea of believers being "strangers and pilgrims" on earth (e.g., [[Hebrews 11:13]], [[1 Peter 2:11]]) directly parallels the Old Testament concept of *gêrûwth*, viewing earthly life as a temporary sojourn towards an eternal home.
### Theological Significance
The word `{{H1628}}` carries profound theological weight, shaping our understanding of human existence and the identity of God's people:
1. **The Transience of Human Life**: Jacob's declaration in [[Genesis 47:9]] establishes a foundational biblical truth: human life on earth is inherently temporary. We are not permanent residents but sojourners, passing through. This perspective fosters humility, detachment from worldly possessions, and a focus on eternal realities. It reminds humanity of its finite nature before an infinite God.
2. **The Identity of God's People as Sojourners**: From Abraham to the nation of Israel, God's people are often depicted as sojourners. They live by faith, awaiting the fulfillment of God's promises, which often lie beyond their immediate grasp or current dwelling place. This *gêrûwth* identity cultivates dependence on God, reminding His people that their ultimate home and security are found in Him, not in any earthly dwelling or nation.
3. **Spiritual Alienation and Longing for Home**: As seen in [[Psalm 120:5]], *gêrûwth* can express the spiritual discomfort of the righteous living in a world hostile to God. This sense of being out of place among the ungodly generates a deep longing for a true, permanent home—a longing that ultimately points to the eschatological hope of dwelling eternally with God in His presence.
4. **Divine Providence and Guidance**: Despite the temporary nature of *gêrûwth*, it is never outside the scope of God's sovereign care. God guides and sustains His sojourning people, providing for their needs and protecting them until they reach their promised destination. This highlights God's faithfulness even in periods of displacement or uncertainty.
### Summary
`{{H1628}}` (גֵּרוּת, *gêrûwth*) signifies a temporary residence or the state of sojourning, deriving from the verb `{{H1481}}` (גּוּר, *gûr*) "to sojourn." Its limited but impactful occurrences in the Bible reveal two primary dimensions: first, in [[Genesis 47:9]], it underscores the transient nature of human life itself, viewing our earthly existence as a temporary sojourn; second, in [[Psalm 120:5]], it conveys the spiritual alienation and discomfort of the righteous living among hostile peoples, evoking a longing for a true, permanent home. Theologically, *gêrûwth* profoundly shapes the biblical understanding of humanity's fleeting existence and the identity of God's people as sojourners and pilgrims on earth, awaiting their ultimate, eternal dwelling with God.
TRV