### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Dophqâh**, represented by `{{H1850}}`, is the name of a place in the Desert. Its base definition is "a knock." The name appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively as a geographic marker during the Israelites' wilderness journey.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1850}}` serves as a specific waypoint in the travels of the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. It is mentioned as one of the encampments in the book of Numbers. The record states that the Israelites "took their journey out of the wilderness of Sin, and encamped in **Dophkah**" [[Numbers 33:12]]. Immediately following, they "departed from **Dophkah**, and encamped in Alush" [[Numbers 33:13]]. Its role is purely that of a location, marking a stop between two other points in their long journey.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verses containing `{{H1850}}` feature two key action words that define the Israelites' activities:
* `{{H5265}}` **nâçaʻ**: This word means **to start on a journey**. It describes the movement of the Israelites as they traveled from a previous location to Dophkah and then departed from it [[Numbers 33:12-13]]. It is used elsewhere to describe setting out toward a divinely appointed destination, as when Moses speaks of **journeying** to the place the LORD promised [[Numbers 10:29]].
* `{{H2583}}` **chânâh**: This word means **to encamp** or pitch a tent. It is used in both verses to describe the Israelites' action of stopping and setting up camp at Dophkah [[Numbers 33:12-13]]. This same term is used to describe how the Levites were to **encamp** around the tabernacle, signifying a designated place of rest and dwelling [[Numbers 1:50]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1850}}` itself does not carry significant theological weight, its context within the narrative of the wilderness wanderings is important.
* **A Marker of Divine Itinerary:** Dophkah's inclusion in the list of encampments underscores the detailed and orderly nature of Israel's journey under God's guidance. It is a specific point on a recorded path [[Numbers 33:12-13]].
* **The Rhythm of Journey and Rest:** The location is defined by the actions of journeying `{{H5265}}` and encamping `{{H2583}}`. This pairing highlights the fundamental pattern of the wilderness experience: a disciplined cycle of movement and temporary rest as the people progressed toward their destination.
* **A Transient Location:** As a place the Israelites departed from, Dophkah represents a temporary stop. It was not a final destination but a point of passage, emphasizing that their time in the desert was a transitional period.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1850}}` **Dophqâh** is a place name that functions as a geographical marker in the Old Testament. Mentioned only in the context of Israel's wilderness travels, its significance is tied to the actions of journeying and encamping that define this period. It serves as a reminder of one specific stop in the long, detailed, and divinely guided path of the Israelites from Egypt to the promised land.
TRV