### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gôshen**, represented by `{{H1657}}`, refers to a specific geographical location. It appears **15 times** across **14 unique verses**. Its definition indicates it was "probably of Egyptian origin; Goshen, the residence of the Israelites in Egypt; also a place in Palestine." This dual identity marks its role in scripture, first as a sanctuary for the Israelites in a foreign country and later as a conquered territory in the promised land.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1657}}` is introduced as the fertile region in **Egypt** `{{H4714}}` where Joseph settles his family. Pharaoh designates it as the "best of the **land** `{{H776}}`" for them to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` with their **flocks** `{{H6629}}` and **herds** `{{H1241}}` ([[Genesis 47:6]], [[Genesis 45:10]]). In this land, the Israelites had possessions `{{H270}}` therein, and grew `{{H6509}}`, and multiplied `{{H7235}}` exceedingly [[Genesis 47:27]]. Later, **Gôshen** becomes a symbol of divine protection, as God severs it from the rest of Egypt, sparing it from the plagues of flies and **hail** `{{H1259}}` ([[Exodus 8:22]], [[Exodus 9:26]]). The name also appears in Joshua, referring to a district in southern Palestine that was conquered by the Israelites ([[Joshua 10:41]], [[Joshua 11:16]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the significance of **Gôshen**:
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell): This word is repeatedly used to describe Israel's settlement in **Gôshen**, emphasizing it as their place of residence and habitation during their time in Egypt [[Genesis 47:27]].
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt): This provides the larger context for the primary story of **Gôshen**, identifying it as a specific, blessed region within a foreign nation [[Genesis 47:6]].
* `{{H4735}}` **miqneh** (cattle): The Israelites' identity as people with **cattle** was the reason they were given **Gôshen** to dwell in, a land suitable for their livelihood and separate from the Egyptians [[Genesis 46:34]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): This term is used to describe the topography of the other **Gôshen** located in the promised land, which Joshua took along with the **hills**, the **south country** `{{H5045}}`, and the **valley** `{{H8219}}` [[Joshua 11:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1657}}` is tied to its role as a place of divine preservation and providence.
* **Divine Provision:** In a time of severe **famine** `{{H7458}}`, God provided **Gôshen** as a place with **pasture** `{{H4829}}` where His people could not only survive but also **grow** `{{H6509}}` and **multiply** `{{H7235}}` ([[Genesis 47:4]], [[Genesis 47:27]]).
* **A Place of Separation:** God explicitly set apart the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Gôshen** during the plagues, making a distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians. This was a sign for Pharaoh to **know** `{{H3045}}` the Lord's power ([[Exodus 8:22]], [[Exodus 9:26]]).
* **A Temporary Home:** While a blessing, **Gôshen** was a temporary dwelling place. The family came "to sojourn" [[Genesis 47:4]], and when they traveled to bury Jacob, their families and **flocks** `{{H6629}}` remained behind in **Gôshen**, highlighting its status as their base within **Egypt** `{{H4714}}` before the eventual exodus [[Genesis 50:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1657}}` is far more than a geographical name. It serves as a powerful symbol of God's ability to provide a sanctuary for His people, even within a foreign land. As the place where Israel was nurtured and protected from judgment, **Gôshen** represents divine favor and separation. The existence of another **Gôshen** in the promised land further connects the themes of God's provision, moving from a temporary dwelling to a permanent inheritance. It illustrates a key part of the biblical narrative: God's faithfulness to preserve His people in preparation for His greater promises.
TRV