### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hârâr**, represented by `{{H2042}}`, is a term for **a mountain; hill, mount(-ain)**. It appears **13 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition, derived from a root meaning "to loom up," captures the imposing and significant nature of these landforms in the biblical landscape.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H2042}}` denotes both specific geographical locations and powerful metaphorical concepts. It is used to identify territories, such as "their mount Seir" [[Genesis 14:6]] and the "mountains of the east" from which Balaam was brought [[Numbers 23:7]]. Figuratively, the word illustrates divine attributes, with God's righteousness being compared to the "great mountains" [[Psalms 36:6]]. It can also represent God-given strength and security, as when the psalmist declares, "by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to stand strong" [[Psalms 30:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context to the meaning of mountains and high places:
* `{{H1389}}` **gibʻâh** (a hillock; hill, little hill): This term for a smaller elevation is often used in parallel with `{{H2042}}`, such as the "everlasting mountains" and "perpetual hills" that bow before God [[Habakkuk 3:6]].
* `{{H1116}}` **bâmâh** (an elevation; height, high place, wave): While `{{H2042}}` can refer to a holy place, `{{H1116}}` is used specifically for "high places" that were often associated with improper worship, as seen in Jeremiah's prophecy against the "mountain in the field" and its sinful "high places" [[Jeremiah 17:3]].
* `{{H2768}}` **Chermôwn** (abrupt; Chermon, a mount of Palestine; Hermon): This refers to a specific, significant mountain. It is mentioned in connection with other mountains, such as the "mountains of the leopards" [[Song of Solomon 4:8]], and its dew is used as a simile for the blessing on the "mountains of Zion" [[Psalms 133:3]].
* `{{H6924}}` **qedem** (the front, of place (absolutely, the fore part, relatively the East) or time (antiquity); ancient): This word adds a temporal dimension to `{{H2042}}`, describing the "ancient mountains" whose chief things are a blessing from God [[Deuteronomy 33:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2042}}` is significant, using a physical feature to illustrate divine truths.
* **Symbol of God's Character:** The scale and stability of mountains are used to portray God's nature. His righteousness is likened to "the great mountains," emphasizing its firm and immovable quality [[Psalms 36:6]].
* **Emblem of Eternity:** Mountains are depicted as ancient and everlasting, connecting them to concepts of permanence. In Habakkuk, the "everlasting mountains" are scattered by God, demonstrating His supreme power over even the most enduring features of creation [[Habakkuk 3:6]].
* **Places of Divine Foundation:** Certain mountains are designated as holy, where God's presence and purpose are established. God's foundation is set "in the holy mountains" [[Psalms 87:1]], and His blessing is commanded upon the "mountains of Zion" [[Psalms 133:3]].
* **Source of Provision:** The land promised to Israel is described as one whose "hills" `{{H2042}}` are a source of valuable resources like brass, signifying God's material provision for His people [[Deuteronomy 8:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2042}}` is far more than a simple geographical descriptor. While it grounds narratives in real-world locations like Mount Seir or the mountains near Aram, its greater power lies in its symbolic use. It stands as a biblical metaphor for the towering righteousness of God, the permanence of His creation, the security He provides, and the holy ground where He establishes His blessing.
TRV