### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Zôcheleth**, represented by `{{H2120}}`, refers to a specific boundary stone in Palestine. Its name is derived from a root meaning **crawling**, like a serpent. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific geographical and historical reference.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Zoheleth** `{{H2120}}` is in [[1 Kings 1:9]], where it identifies a significant location. The verse describes Adonijah's defiant act of anointing himself king, where he "slew sheep and oxen and fat cattle by the **stone** of **Zoheleth**, which is by Enrogel." This boundary stone serves as the backdrop for Adonijah's conspiracy, where he gathered his supporters, including his brethren and the king's servants, to solidify his claim to the throne.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage give context to the event at the stone of Zoheleth:
* `{{H68}}` **'eben** (stone): This word, used to describe Zoheleth, comes from a root meaning to build. It refers to a **stone**, and is used elsewhere to mark a place of remembrance and divine help [[1 Samuel 7:12]].
* `{{H138}}` **'Ădônîyâh** (Adonijah): The central figure in this passage, his name means "lord (i.e. worshipper) of Jah." He is identified as a son of the king who exalted himself, saying, "I will be king" [[1 Kings 1:5]].
* `{{H5883}}` **`Êyn Rôgêl** (En-rogel): This term identifies the location near the stone of Zoheleth, meaning "fountain of a traveller." It is noted as a place near Jerusalem that served as a boundary marker [[Joshua 15:7]].
* `{{H2076}}` **zâbach** (slew): This primitive root means to slaughter an animal, usually in sacrifice. The action taken by Adonijah was to **slay** animals as part of his bid for the kingship [[1 Kings 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of this location is tied directly to the event that occurred there.
* **A Site of Rebellion:** The stone of Zoheleth is memorialized not for a righteous act, but as the location of an unsanctioned political and religious ceremony. Adonijah's sacrifice was an attempt to legitimize his claim to the throne [[1 Kings 1:5]].
* **Unlawful Sacrifice:** Adonijah **slew** `{{H2076}}` animals at this site, a ritualistic act intended to secure loyalty. This contrasts with righteous offerings which are done in submission to God, not in self-exaltation [[Psalms 4:5]].
* **Transgression of Authority:** By performing this ceremony at a boundary **stone** `{{H68}}`, Adonijah's actions can be seen as a symbolic transgression of the established authority of King David and the designated succession of Solomon [[1 Kings 1:13]].
### Summary
In summary, **Zôcheleth** `{{H2120}}` is more than a geographical marker; it is a name tied inextricably to a moment of rebellion. Its singular mention in scripture at a pivotal moment in the succession of King David ensures its place in the biblical record as the site where Adonijah made his ill-fated attempt to seize power, using the pretense of sacrifice to fuel his political ambition [[1 Kings 1:9]].
TRV