### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Hămôwn Gôwg**, represented by `{{H1996}}`, is a fanciful name for an emblematic place in Palestine. It is derived from `{{H1995}}` **hâmôwn**, meaning "multitude," and the name Gog, translating to "the multitude of Gog." This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H1996}}` are found in the prophecy of Ezekiel. The Lord declares that He will give `{{H5414}}` Gog a designated place for graves `{{H6913}}` in Israel, specifically "the valley `{{H1516}}` of the passengers `{{H5674}}`." This site is where Gog and his entire multitude `{{H1995}}` will be buried `{{H6912}}`, and it will be called "The valley of Hamongog" [[Ezekiel 39:11]]. The prophecy continues, stating that passengers `{{H5674}}` who pass through the land `{{H776}}` and see a human bone will set up a marker, so that buriers `{{H6912}}` can inter it in "the valley of Hamongog" [[Ezekiel 39:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning and setting of Hamongog:
* `{{H1995}}` **hâmôwn** (multitude): This word, meaning a crowd, company, or multitude, forms the first part of the name `{{H1996}}` and emphasizes the vast number of Gog's defeated army to be buried there [[Ezekiel 39:11]]. It is also used to describe a "great company" coming against God's people [[2 Chronicles 20:12]].
* `{{H1516}}` **gayʼ** (valley): This term defines the physical topography of Hamongog as a gorge or valley. Scripture specifies the location as "The valley `{{H1516}}` of Hamongog" [[Ezekiel 39:11]], grounding the symbolic event in a geographical setting.
* `{{H6912}}` **qâbar** (bury): This root word for the act of burying is central to the purpose of Hamongog. It is the place where Gog's multitude "shall they bury" [[Ezekiel 39:11]], and where designated "buriers" will complete the task [[Ezekiel 39:15]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): The people who witness the aftermath are described as "passengers" `{{H5674}}`, those who "pass through" the land. Their role in marking the dead for burial highlights the public and memorable nature of the event ([[Ezekiel 39:11]], [[Ezekiel 39:15]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1996}}` is rooted in its role as a symbol of divine judgment and restoration.
* **A Place of Judgment:** The valley is given `{{H5414}}` by God specifically as a burial site for His enemies. The name "multitude of Gog" permanently associates the location with the utter defeat of a vast force that opposed God [[Ezekiel 39:11]].
* **A Public Memorial:** The location is described in relation to "passengers" `{{H5674}}`, indicating it is a known place. The naming of the valley serves as a lasting memorial, a sign on the land `{{H776}}` testifying to the consequences of rising against God [[Ezekiel 39:15]].
* **The Cleansing of the Land:** The concerted effort to bury `{{H6912}}` the dead within this specific valley `{{H1516}}` represents a divine process of purifying the land of Israel from the defilement of the invaders' corpses.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1996}}` is not merely a place name but an emblematic term signifying the finality of God's judgment. It designates a specific valley `{{H1516}}` for the burial `{{H6912}}` of a defeated "multitude" `{{H1995}}`. As "The valley of Hamongog," the site is prophesied to stand as a permanent memorial to the downfall of Gog's army and the purification of God's land.
TRV