### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **harmôwn**, represented by `{{H2038}}`, refers to a **castle** or **palace**. Its definition, "from the same as הֹרָם; a castle (from its height); palace," suggests a structure known for its elevated position. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its singular context critically important to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2038}}` is in a prophecy of judgment in [[Amos 4:3]]. The LORD declares that the people will "go out at the breaches" and be cast into the **palace**. In this verse, the **palace** is not a place of honor or safety but the destination for those being forcibly exiled, framing it as an element of divine retribution. The declaration is made with divine authority, as it concludes with "saith the LORD" [[Amos 4:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Amos 4:3]] illuminate the meaning of **harmôwn**:
* `{{H6556}}` **perets** (breach): This word for a "break" or "gap" describes the broken-down state of a defensive wall through which the people are forced to exit, setting the scene for their expulsion [[Amos 4:3]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): This verb describes the action of the people being brought out or made to depart. Its use in [[Amos 4:3]] emphasizes their forced removal from their city and their subsequent casting into the **palace**.
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak** (to throw out, down or away): This powerful verb, meaning to "cast" or "hurl," depicts the violent and dismissive nature of the judgment. The people are not merely led to the **palace**; they are thrown into it [[Amos 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2038}}` is derived entirely from its singular, stark context.
* **Symbol of Judgment:** The **palace**, normally a symbol of security and power, is transformed into a place of confinement or disposal. Its use in [[Amos 4:3]] illustrates that places of human strength offer no refuge from divine judgment.
* **Subversion of Earthly Power:** By designating a **castle** as the endpoint of exile, the prophecy subverts its meaning. What should be a seat of rule becomes a receptacle for the judged, showing God's authority over human institutions.
* **Divine Decree:** The fate involving the **palace** is a direct oracle from the LORD `{{H3068}}`, emphasized by the term "saith" `{{H5002}}`. This underscores that human destinies and the purpose of their grandest structures are ultimately determined by God's sovereign will.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2038}}` **harmôwn** is a term for a **palace** or **castle** whose biblical meaning is defined exclusively by its use in [[Amos 4:3]]. Rather than representing royalty or safety, it functions as a symbol of judgment and exile. This single occurrence demonstrates how a word for a place of human authority can be repurposed within a divine prophecy to signify the futility of that authority in the face of God's sovereign decree.
TRV