from גַּת and רִמּוֹן; wine-press of (the) pomegranate; Gath-Rimmon, a place in Palestine; Gath-rimmon. d
Transliteration:Gath-Rimmôwn
Pronunciation:gath-rim-mone'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1667}}` Gath-Rimmôwn is a compound proper noun, literally meaning "winepress of the pomegranate." It is derived from two distinct Hebrew words: `{{H1660}}` (gath), meaning "winepress," and `{{H7416}}` (rimmon), meaning "pomegranate." As a place name, Gath-Rimmôwn directly describes a geographical location characterized by these agricultural features. The presence of a "winepress" suggests viticulture and the processing of grapes, while "pomegranate" points to the cultivation of this fruit, known for its abundance of seeds and often associated with fertility and blessing in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Thus, the name itself evokes a sense of agricultural richness and productivity, reflecting the bounty of the land.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Gath-Rimmôwn `{{H1667}}` appears in the biblical record primarily in the context of the tribal allotments and the designation of Levitical cities during the settlement of Canaan.
1. **[[Joshua 19:45]]**: This verse lists Gath-Rimmôwn as one of the cities allotted to the tribe of Dan. The context here is the division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel after the conquest, illustrating the specific boundaries and holdings assigned by divine decree.
2. **[[Joshua 21:24]]**: Here, Gath-Rimmôwn is designated as one of the cities given to the Kohathite clan of the Levites from the territory of Ephraim. This highlights its role as a Levitical city, intended to house the priests and Levites who served the tabernacle and later the temple, and to provide spiritual instruction and judicial oversight for the surrounding communities.
3. **[[1 Chronicles 6:69]]**: This passage reiterates Gath-Rimmôwn's status as a Levitical city for the Kohathites, again within the territory of Ephraim. This parallel account in the Chronicler's history confirms its importance in the administrative and religious structure of early Israel.
The dual listing in both Dan and Ephraim's territory has led to scholarly discussion regarding whether these refer to one city whose tribal affiliation shifted or was debated, or if there were two distinct places bearing the same name. Regardless, its consistent identification as a Levitical city underscores its significant role in the divinely ordained settlement plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of Gath-Rimmôwn, `{{H1660}}` (gath) and `{{H7416}}` (rimmon), are themselves rich in meaning and symbolism.
* **`{{H1660}}` (gath - winepress)**: The winepress is a powerful symbol in Scripture, often associated with agricultural labor, abundance, and the production of wine. Metaphorically, it can represent judgment (e.g., the "winepress of the wrath of God") or great blessing and prosperity. Its presence in a place name suggests a fertile region.
* **`{{H7416}}` (rimmon - pomegranate)**: The pomegranate is a fruit frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing fertility, abundance, beauty, and blessing. It was a prominent motif in the decorations of the high priestly garments ([[Exodus 28:33-34]]) and the pillars of Solomon's Temple ([[1 Kings 7:18-20]]), signifying the richness and glory of God's presence and provision.
* **Levitical Cities**: Gath-Rimmôwn's designation as a Levitical city connects it to a broader system of cities ([[Numbers 35:1-8]], [[Joshua 21:1-42]]) set aside for the Levites. These cities were strategically distributed throughout Israel to ensure the spiritual and judicial oversight of the tribes, emphasizing God's desire for His law and presence to permeate the entire land. This concept highlights the divine order and the integration of religious life with the daily existence of the people.
* **Other "Gath" Places**: While Gath-Rimmôwn is distinct, the element "Gath" appears in other significant place names, most notably Gath of the Philistines (`{{H1661}}`), home to Goliath ([[1 Samuel 17:4]]). This distinction is important, as Gath-Rimmôwn is an Israelite settlement, not a Philistine one.
### Theological Significance
The name Gath-Rimmôwn, "winepress of the pomegranate," inherently speaks to the theological theme of **divine provision and blessing**. The very name of the city testifies to the agricultural abundance of the Promised Land, a land famously described as "flowing with milk and honey" ([[Exodus 3:8]]). This fertility was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises to Israel, demonstrating His capacity to provide for His people in a bountiful way.
Furthermore, Gath-Rimmôwn's status as a **Levitical city** carries profound theological weight. It signifies the divine ordering of the land and the people, ensuring that spiritual instruction, justice, and the presence of God's representatives were dispersed throughout the tribal territories. The Levites served as teachers of the Law and arbiters of disputes, bringing God's wisdom and moral guidance directly to the communities. Thus, Gath-Rimmôwn was not merely a place of agricultural productivity but also a center for the cultivation of spiritual life and adherence to the covenant. Its existence underscores the holistic nature of God's covenant with Israel, encompassing both material sustenance and spiritual well-being.
### Summary
Gath-Rimmôwn `{{H1667}}`, meaning "winepress of the pomegranate," is a place name in ancient Israel that vividly describes a region of agricultural fertility and abundance. Mentioned in the books of Joshua and 1 Chronicles, it was initially allotted to the tribe of Dan and subsequently designated as a Levitical city for the Kohathites within the territory of Ephraim. This dual identity highlights its significance both as a testament to God's generous provision of a land rich in produce and as a strategic center for the spiritual and judicial administration of Israel. The name itself, combining symbols of agricultural prosperity, and its function as a Levitical dwelling, collectively underscore the theological themes of divine blessing, covenant faithfulness, and the ordered presence of God's law and representatives among His people in the Promised Land.
TRV