### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gêrûwth**, represented by `{{H1628}}`, denotes a **habitation** or a temporary residence. Derived from a root meaning to sojourn, this term appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific. It conveys the idea of a lodging or a place of temporary dwelling, distinct from a permanent home.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1628}}` is in [[Jeremiah 41:17]], where a group of people fleeing to Egypt paused on their journey. The text states, "And they departed, and dwelt in the **habitation** of Chimham, which is by Bethlehem, to go to enter into Egypt." Here, the word pinpoints a specific location used as a stopping-place. It was not their final destination but a waypoint, highlighting the word's meaning as a temporary lodging used during a longer journey.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this temporary residence:
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab**: This word, translated "dwelt in," means to sit down, remain, or dwell. It describes the act of settling in the **gêrûwth** [[Jeremiah 41:17]] and is often used for more permanent dwelling, such as when the Israelites are described as those who **dwell** in the land of the Amorites [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak**: Translated as "departed" and "to go" in the same verse, this root for walking or traveling frames the context for `{{H1628}}`. The habitation is a pause in a larger movement. This word is also used to describe God leading his people in the way they should **go** [[Isaiah 48:17]].
* `{{H3643}}` **Kimhâm**: The habitation is explicitly named for Chimham. The dossier shows he was offered passage and provision by the king [[2 Samuel 19:38]], suggesting that the "habitation of **Chimham**" may have been a known place of lodging associated with him.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1628}}` is derived entirely from its specific context.
* **A Place of Transience:** The primary theme conveyed by `{{H1628}}` is that of sojourning. The habitation is a temporary shelter, not a permanent home, reflecting the transient nature of the group's situation as they flee their homeland toward Egypt [[Jeremiah 41:17]].
* **The Waypoint on a Journey:** In its biblical context, the "habitation of Chimham" serves as a critical pause. It represents a temporary stop in a larger, unfolding narrative of flight and displacement, a place to dwell before continuing on.
* **Human Provision and Shelter:** The lodging is named after a specific individual, Chimham, who was himself a recipient of royal provision [[2 Samuel 19:38]]. This connects the idea of a temporary dwelling to the tangible provision of shelter during times of uncertainty.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1628}}` **gêrûwth** provides a specific term for a temporary residence. Though used only once, its context in [[Jeremiah 41:17]] clearly defines it as a waypoint or lodging for those on a journey. It underscores the biblical theme of sojourning and highlights the distinction between a temporary shelter and a permanent home, capturing a moment of pause and transition within Israel's history.
TRV