by orthographical variation from דַּמֶּשֶׂק; damask (as a fabric of Damascus); in Damascus.
Transliteration:dᵉmesheq
Pronunciation:dem-eh'-shek
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term דְּמֶשֶׁק (dᵉmesheq), Strong's number `{{H1833}}`, is closely related to and derived from דַּמֶּשֶׂק (Dammeseq, `{{H1834}}`), which is the primary name for the city of Damascus. While `{{H1834}}` consistently refers to the city itself, `{{H1833}}` functions as an orthographical variation, often carrying a more adjectival or locative nuance, meaning "in Damascus" or "Damascene." Its base definition indicates a connection to "damask," a type of fabric originating from Damascus, though this specific sense is not explicitly attested in the biblical text for this particular Strong's number. Thus, the semantic range primarily encompasses the geopolitical entity of Damascus, with an underlying etymological link to goods produced there.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word דְּמֶשֶׁק (dᵉmesheq, `{{H1833}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[2 Samuel 8:6]]. The verse reads: "Then David put garrisons in Damascus of Syria; and the Syrians became David’s servants, and brought tribute. And the LORD preserved David wherever he went." In this sole occurrence, the term clearly refers to the city of Damascus, the capital of Aram (Syria). The context describes King David's military campaigns and his successful subjugation of various surrounding nations. The placement of "garrisons in Damascus" signifies David's complete victory over the Arameans, establishing his dominion and control over this strategically vital region. This singular usage underscores the geographical and political significance of Damascus within the narrative of Israel's expanding kingdom under David, marking a pivotal moment of regional dominance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is דַּמֶּשֶׂק (Dammeseq, `{{H1834}}`), which is the standard and far more frequent term for the city of Damascus throughout the Old Testament. The relationship between `{{H1833}}` and `{{H1834}}` is one of orthographical variation, with `{{H1833}}` perhaps emphasizing the "belonging to Damascus" or "in Damascus" aspect. Broader concepts include:
* **Aram/Syria:** Damascus was the capital of the Aramean kingdom, often referred to as Syria. The subjugation of Damascus meant the subjugation of a significant portion of Aram.
* **Tribute and Vassalage:** The context of [[2 Samuel 8:6]] highlights the practice of conquered nations paying tribute and becoming servants (vassals) to the victorious power, a common feature of ancient Near Eastern geopolitics.
* **Military Conquest:** The word appears in a passage detailing David's military prowess and the expansion of his kingdom, linking it to themes of warfare and dominion.
* **Trade and Craftsmanship:** While not directly used in the biblical text for fabric, the etymological connection of "damask" (the fabric) to Damascus points to the city's historical reputation as a center for fine textiles and trade, a broader cultural context that informs the word's full semantic potential.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of דְּמֶשֶׁק (dᵉmesheq, `{{H1833}}`) in [[2 Samuel 8:6]] is profoundly significant within the theological framework of the Davidic covenant and God's sovereignty. David's conquest of Damascus is presented as an act of divine preservation: "And the LORD preserved David wherever he went." This demonstrates God's active involvement in the geopolitical affairs of His people, fulfilling His promises to establish David's kingdom and grant him victory over his enemies. The subjugation of a powerful regional capital like Damascus underscores the ultimate authority of Yahweh over all nations and their rulers. It illustrates that even formidable kingdoms outside Israel are subject to God's overarching plan and can be used to serve His purposes for His chosen people. This event foreshadows later prophetic pronouncements concerning Damascus, such as those found in [[Isaiah 17:1]] and [[Amos 1:3-5]], which also speak to God's judgment and ultimate control over this prominent city.
### Summary
The Hebrew word דְּמֶשֶׁק (dᵉmesheq, `{{H1833}}`) is an orthographical variant of the more common term for Damascus, primarily signifying the city and its surrounding region. Its sole biblical appearance in [[2 Samuel 8:6]] describes King David's successful conquest and establishment of garrisons in Damascus of Syria, compelling the Arameans to become his vassals and pay tribute. This event serves as a powerful testament to God's preserving hand upon David and His ultimate sovereignty over all nations, enabling the expansion of Israel's kingdom. While its etymology points to the city's renown for "damask" fabric, the biblical usage of `{{H1833}}` is strictly geographical and political, highlighting Damascus's strategic importance in the ancient Near East and its role in the unfolding narrative of God's covenant with Israel.
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