from the same as הֹרָם; a castle (from its height); palace.
Transliteration:harmôwn
Pronunciation:har-mone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term הַרְמוֹן (harmôwn, `{{H2038}}`) is derived from a root connected to height or elevation, akin to הֹרָם (horam, `{{H2039}}`), which signifies "high" or "exalted." Its primary semantic range encompasses "palace" or "castle," denoting a grand, elevated, and often fortified structure. The emphasis is on the imposing nature of such a building, likely due to its significant height and inherent strength, serving as a residence for royalty or a stronghold of power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word הַרְמוֹן (harmôwn, `{{H2038}}`) is remarkably rare, appearing only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, in the book of Amos:
* [[Amos 4:3]]: "And ye shall go out at the breaches, every cow at that which is before her; and ye shall cast them into the palace, saith the LORD."
In this singular occurrence, the prophet Amos delivers a scathing indictment against the wealthy and oppressive women of Samaria, whom he sarcastically calls "cows of Bashan." The verse describes their forced exile through the city's breaches. The phrase "and ye shall cast them into the palace" (וְהִשְׁלַכְתֶּן הַהַרְמוֹנָה) has been subject to various interpretations. While some ancient versions and commentators have proposed alternative readings (e.g., to Mount Hermon, or even to a refuse heap), the most consistent interpretation with the lexical definition of harmôwn as "palace" or "citadel" suggests a profound act of desecration and judgment.
If "palace" is the correct understanding, it signifies that the very seat of their luxury, pride, and illicit gain would become the place of their ultimate humiliation or the receptacle for their disgraced remains or idols. This imagery underscores the complete reversal of their fortunes and the thoroughness of God's judgment against their unrighteousness and idolatry.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Etymological Root:** The connection to הָרַם (haram), meaning "to be high" or "exalted," links harmôwn to concepts of elevation, prominence, and perhaps the pride associated with such status.
* **Similar-sounding Words:**
* אַרְמוֹן (armon, `{{H759}}` or `{{H6128}}`): This is the more common Hebrew term for "palace" or "citadel," appearing frequently throughout the Old Testament. While sharing a similar meaning and phonetic resemblance, harmôwn (`{{H2038}}`) is distinct and much rarer, suggesting a potentially unique nuance or a different etymological path.
* חֶרְמוֹן (Chermon, `{{H2768}}`): Mount Hermon. Though phonetically similar, this is a proper noun referring to a specific mountain, not a structure. While some have attempted to link harmôwn in Amos 4:3 to Mount Hermon, the lexical evidence for harmôwn points firmly to "palace."
* **Thematic Connections:** The word evokes themes of power, royalty, luxury, and human security. In the context of Amos, it becomes a symbol of the earthly grandeur that is ultimately subject to divine authority and judgment.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of harmôwn (`{{H2038}}`) in [[Amos 4:3]] imbues it with a specific theological weight tied to the prophetic message of judgment. If interpreted as "palace," its use highlights several key theological principles:
1. **Divine Sovereignty Over Human Power:** The "palace" symbolizes the pinnacle of human achievement, wealth, and security. Yet, God's judgment reaches even into these most fortified and esteemed places, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and institutions.
2. **Reversal of Fortunes:** The act of "casting into the palace" signifies a profound reversal. What was once a symbol of honor and luxury becomes a place of shame, defilement, or even a receptacle for the discarded. This illustrates God's ability to humble the proud and bring low those who exalt themselves.
3. **Consequences of Sin:** The context of Amos is a condemnation of Israel's social injustice, oppression, and idolatry. The fate of those associated with the "palace" serves as a stark reminder that sin, particularly the abuse of power and wealth, inevitably leads to divine retribution and humiliation.
### Summary
הַרְמוֹן (harmôwn, `{{H2038}}`) is a rare Hebrew word occurring only once in the biblical text, in [[Amos 4:3]]. Derived from a root signifying height, its core meaning is "palace" or "castle," emphasizing an elevated and strong structure. In its sole appearance, it describes the destination of the wealthy women of Samaria during God's judgment. While interpretations vary, understanding harmôwn as "palace" aligns with its lexical definition and powerfully conveys the prophet's message: the very seat of human luxury and power will be transformed into a place of desecration and shame. Theologically, this singular usage underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over human pride and power, and the certainty of divine judgment against sin, leading to a dramatic reversal of fortunes for the unrighteous.
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