### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **deleth**, represented by `{{H1817}}`, is a term for a **door**, **gate**, or **leaf**. Its root suggests something swinging, like the valve of a door. It appears **88 times** across **78 unique verses** in the Bible. Beyond a simple entryway, it can also refer to a **lid**, as seen on a chest [[2 Kings 12:9]], or even the pages of a scroll [[Jeremiah 36:23]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1817}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. It literally refers to the **doors** of a house, which are shut for privacy or protection ([[Genesis 19:10]], [[2 Kings 4:33]]). It is also central to the construction and security of cities and sacred spaces, such as when the doors of the gates of Jerusalem were built and set up [[Nehemiah 3:1]], or when Samson tore the **doors** of Gaza's gate from their posts [[Judges 16:3]]. Figuratively, the term is used to describe the **doors** of heaven being opened [[Psalms 78:23]] and as a metaphor for control over speech in the "door of my lips" [[Psalms 141:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and context of a **door**:
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): Often used in conjunction with **deleth**, this word refers to the larger opening or gateway of a city or temple. The **doors** `{{H1817}}` were the structures set within the **gate** `{{H8179}}` itself [[1 Chronicles 22:3]].
* `{{H5462}}` **sâgar** (to shut up): This verb frequently describes the primary action associated with a **door**, signifying security, closure, or separation. God's people are told to **shut** their **doors** for protection [[Isaiah 26:20]], and God promises Cyrus that gates will not be **shut** before him [[Isaiah 45:1]].
* `{{H1280}}` **bᵉrîyach** (a bolt; bar): This term refers to the locking mechanism used to secure a **door** or gate. Cities were considered defensible when they had **gates** and **bars** [[Deuteronomy 3:5]], and God's power is shown by his ability to cut through **bars** of iron [[Isaiah 45:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1817}}` is tied to themes of security, access, and divine judgment.
* **Sanctuary and Protection:** Doors represent a boundary between safety and danger. Entering a chamber and shutting the **doors** is an act of seeking refuge until God's indignation passes [[Isaiah 26:20]]. A city with **gates** and bars is a place of security [[1 Samuel 23:7]], while a nation without them is exposed and vulnerable [[Jeremiah 49:31]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's power is demonstrated through his control over **doors**. He is the one who can **break** the **gates** of brass [[Isaiah 45:2]], **open** the **doors** of heaven to provide for His people [[Psalms 78:23]], and **shut up** the sea with **doors** at creation [[Job 38:8]].
* **Covenant and Consecration:** The **door** is a place of covenantal action. A servant choosing to remain with his master would have his ear bored at the **door** or doorpost, signifying a permanent bond ([[Exodus 21:6]], [[Deuteronomy 15:17]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1817}}` is a word with rich literal and figurative meaning. It functions as a physical barrier in houses, cities, and temples, but it also serves as a powerful symbol. **Deleth** illustrates concepts of divine protection, sovereign power over access and judgment, personal discipline, and the making of covenants. From a simple swinging door to the very gates of heaven, it defines the boundaries that shape physical security and spiritual reality.
TRV