from הָמוֹן and גּוֹג; the multitude of Gog; the fanciful name of an emblematic place in Palestine; Hamogog.
Transliteration:Hămôwn Gôwg
Pronunciation:ham-one' gohg
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase הֲמוֹן גּוֹג (Hămôwn Gôwg), Strong's number `{{H1996}}`, is a compound derived from הָמוֹן (hāmôn, `{{H1995}}`), meaning "multitude, crowd, noise, roar, abundance," and גּוֹג (Gôg, `{{H1463}}`), the name of a significant eschatological figure. Therefore, the literal translation is "the multitude of Gog." However, the base definition provided indicates a more specific and nuanced meaning: "the fanciful name of an emblematic place in Palestine." This implies that while it refers to the vast army led by Gog, it primarily designates the specific geographical location where this immense host meets its decisive end. The term thus encapsulates both the overwhelming number of the enemy and the particular site of their judgment and burial. The "fanciful" and "emblematic" nature suggests that its significance lies more in its symbolic representation of divine judgment and cleansing than in a pre-existing, literal place name.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term הֲמוֹן גּוֹג (Hămôwn Gôwg) appears exclusively in the book of Ezekiel, specifically within the prophetic discourse concerning Gog's invasion of Israel. It is found in [[Ezekiel 39:11]] and [[Ezekiel 39:15]].
In [[Ezekiel 39:11]], the Lord declares, "On that day I will give Gog a burial place there in Israel, the Valley of Those Who Pass Through, east of the Sea, and it will block the way of those who pass through. There Gog and all his multitude will be buried, and they will call it the Valley of Hamon-gog." This verse clearly establishes Hamon-gog as the designated burial site for Gog and his vast army following their catastrophic defeat. The name itself, "Valley of Hamon-gog," underscores that the very place will bear witness to the immense number of the fallen. The phrase "Valley of Those Who Pass Through" (גֵּיא הָעֹבְרִים) might further emphasize its public nature, a place visible to all, or perhaps a thoroughfare now blocked by the sheer volume of corpses.
[[Ezekiel 39:15]] reinforces this designation: "And when those who pass through the land see a human bone, they will set up a sign beside it, until the gravediggers have buried it in the Valley of Hamon-gog." This verse highlights the extensive cleanup operation required after the battle, emphasizing the overwhelming scale of the casualties. The methodical process of burial, lasting seven months ([[Ezekiel 39:12]]), underscores the magnitude of the multitude and the thoroughness of God's judgment and Israel's subsequent cleansing. The place name serves as a perpetual memorial to this divine intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of הֲמוֹן גּוֹג (Hămôwn Gôwg) is intrinsically linked to several key biblical terms and concepts:
* **הָמוֹן (hāmôn, `{{H1995}}`):** The root word for "multitude," it frequently denotes a large crowd, often with connotations of noise, commotion, or abundance. Its use in Hamon-gog highlights the sheer, overwhelming number of Gog's forces, which contrasts sharply with their utter destruction.
* **גּוֹג (Gôg, `{{H1463}}`):** The primary figure of the eschatological invasion, Gog is presented as the leader of a coalition of nations (including Magog, `{{H4031}}`) who will attack Israel in the latter days. Hamon-gog is the place of his ultimate humiliation and defeat.
* **מָגוֹג (Māgôg, `{{H4031}}`):** The land or people associated with Gog, often understood as his origin or dominion. The defeat of Gog and his multitude at Hamon-gog signifies the complete overthrow of the forces represented by Magog.
* **Divine Judgment:** The concept of Hamon-gog is a powerful demonstration of God's righteous judgment against those who oppose His people and His sovereignty. It illustrates the certainty of divine retribution against the wicked.
* **Eschatology:** The entire narrative of Gog and Hamon-gog is deeply embedded in biblical eschatology, describing events that will occur in the "latter days" (אַחֲרִית הַיָּמִים, [[Ezekiel 38:16]]). It provides a prophetic glimpse into God's ultimate triumph over evil.
* **Sanctification and Cleansing:** The burial of Gog's multitude at Hamon-gog is explicitly linked to the cleansing of the land of Israel (e.g., [[Ezekiel 39:12]]). This act purifies the land from the defilement of the invaders, making it fit for God's renewed dwelling and Israel's restoration.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of הֲמוֹן גּוֹג (Hămôwn Gôwg) is profound and multi-faceted:
1. **Revelation of God's Sovereignty and Holiness:** The entire episode of Gog's invasion and his subsequent defeat at Hamon-gog is orchestrated by God to reveal His absolute sovereignty and holiness to both Israel and the nations (e.g., [[Ezekiel 38:23]], [[Ezekiel 39:7]]). Hamon-gog serves as the physical testament to God's power to intervene decisively in history and to defend His chosen people. It is a declaration that "I am the Lord."
2. **Assurance of Israel's Security and Restoration:** The burial of Gog's vast army at Hamon-gog signifies the complete and irreversible defeat of Israel's enemies. This provides a powerful assurance of God's commitment to protect and restore His people, guaranteeing their future security and prosperity in the land. The meticulous cleanup operation underscores the thoroughness of this restoration.
3. **Ultimate Triumph Over Evil:** Hamon-gog stands as an emblem of God's ultimate victory over all forces that oppose Him and His righteous purposes. While Gog is a specific enemy, he also represents the archetype of all hostile powers that seek to challenge God's authority and harm His people. The defeat at Hamon-gog points to the final vanquishing of evil.
4. **Divine Justice and Retribution:** The naming of the place as "Hamon-gog" – the "multitude of Gog" – underscores the irony and justice of God's judgment. The very strength and overwhelming numbers of the enemy become the means of their ignominious end and a lasting memorial to their defeat.
### Summary
הֲמוֹן גּוֹג (Hămôwn Gôwg), Strong's number `{{H1996}}`, literally meaning "the multitude of Gog," is an emblematic and fanciful name for the specific valley in Israel designated as the burial place for Gog and his immense army after their catastrophic defeat. Found exclusively in [[Ezekiel 39:11]] and [[Ezekiel 39:15]], it serves as a powerful symbol within the prophetic narrative of God's eschatological judgment. The site of Hamon-gog signifies not merely the physical location of a battle's aftermath but the decisive display of God's sovereignty, holiness, and unwavering commitment to His people. It assures Israel's ultimate security and restoration, demonstrating God's complete triumph over all opposing forces and His righteous justice against those who challenge His divine authority.
TRV