### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôwmâh**, represented by `{{H2346}}`, literally means a **wall of protection**. It appears **133 times** in **123 unique verses**, typically referring to the defensive walls surrounding a city. Stemming from a root that means "to join," it signifies a structure that joins together to provide security and enclosure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2346}}` is central to the story of Israel's security and vulnerability. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's **wall** under Nehemiah is a primary example, representing the restoration of the people from reproach and distress [[Nehemiah 2:17]]. Its destruction signifies divine judgment and national defeat, as when the Chaldeans broke down the **walls** of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 39:8]]. The term is also used metaphorically. The waters of the Red Sea became a **wall** to the Israelites [[Exodus 14:22]], and God himself promises to be a **wall** of fire for his people [[Zechariah 2:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of fortification and defense:
* `{{H2426}}` **chêyl** (bulwark, rampart): Often used in parallel with **chôwmâh**, this word refers to an outer defensive fortification or trench. In Isaiah, God appoints salvation for **walls** and **bulwarks** [[Isaiah 26:1]].
* `{{H4013}}` **mibtsâr** (fortification, fortress): This term describes a fortified city or castle. God promises to make his prophet Jeremiah a "defenced **city**" with "brasen **walls**" [[Jeremiah 1:18]], linking personal strength to a fortified place.
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): As the entry point through a wall, the gate is a crucial component of a city's defense. The state of the **walls** and **gates** of Jerusalem are mentioned together as a sign of its condition [[Nehemiah 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2346}}` is significant, often symbolizing spiritual realities.
* **Divine Protection:** The ultimate **wall** is God Himself. He promises to be a **wall** of fire around His people [[Zechariah 2:5]], and His salvation is described as **walls** and bulwarks [[Isaiah 26:1]]. This reframes security as a matter of divine presence, not just physical barriers.
* **Symbol of Spiritual State:** The condition of a city's **wall** often reflects the spiritual state of its people. Broken walls represent judgment and reproach [[Nehemiah 1:3]], while rebuilt walls, called "Salvation," signify restoration and God's favor [[Isaiah 60:18]].
* **Personal Fortitude:** The concept is applied to individuals. A person who lacks self-control is compared to a city with a broken-down **wall** [[Proverbs 25:28]], while a prophet empowered by God can be made into a "brasen **wall**" [[Jeremiah 15:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2346}}` is far more than an architectural term. It serves as a powerful symbol for security, national identity, and spiritual fortitude. From the literal walls of Jerusalem that rise and fall with the nation's fate to the metaphorical **wall** of God's own presence, the word illustrates that true and lasting protection is found not in man-made structures but in a right relationship with God.
TRV