The Hebrew word chôwph, represented by H2348, refers to a coast, haven, shore, or (sea-) side. It is derived from an unused root that means to cover, suggesting a sheltered bay or cove. It appears 7 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, primarily describing the coastline as a geographical and prophetic boundary.
In biblical prophecy and narrative, H2348 is used to define specific territories and destinies. In Jacob's blessing, it is prophesied that Zebulun H2074 will "dwell at the haven of the sea" and be a "haven of ships" Genesis 49:13. The word also marks the extent of the Promised Land, as the Israelites were commanded to go to the "sea side" as part of their journey Deuteronomy 1:7. It is also a site of divine action, as the LORD H3068 gives a charge against Ashkelon H831 and "the sea shore" Jeremiah 47:7, and promises to "destroy the remnant of the sea coast" in judgment against the Philistines H6430 Ezekiel 25:16.
Several related words clarify the context of H2348 as a geographical marker:
- H3220 yâm (sea): This word is consistently paired with chôwph to specify the body of water being referenced, such as the "great sea" Joshua 9:1. It refers to a sea or any large body of water.
- H591 'ŏnîyâh (ship): This word for ship appears in the context of Zebulun's destiny as a "haven of ships" Genesis 49:13 and in the question of why Dan H1835 remained in ships Judges 5:17, linking the shore to maritime activity.
- H3411 yᵉrêkâh (border): Used in parallel with chôwph in Jacob's prophecy, this term describes Zebulun's border extending to Zidon H6721 Genesis 49:13, emphasizing the role of the coast in defining territory.
- H4664 miphrâts (breach): In the Song of Deborah, Asher H836 is said to have abode in his breaches Judges 5:17, a term for a haven or a break in the shore, used in parallel with the sea shore H2348.
The theological weight of H2348 is tied to its role in defining God's promises and judgments.
- Prophetic Destiny and Inheritance: The term is integral to the blessings pronounced upon the tribes of Israel. Zebulun's identity is tied to being a haven Genesis 49:13, and Asher's dwelling is on the sea shore Judges 5:17, establishing their portions within the land promised by God.
- Boundary of the Promised Land: The sea side H2348 serves as a key geographical marker for the land of the Canaanites H3669 that Israel was to possess, delineating the western edge of their inheritance as defined by God's command Deuteronomy 1:7.
- Site of Divine Judgment: The coast is not merely a neutral location but a place where God's sovereignty is demonstrated. The LORD H3068 appoints judgment against the sea shore Jeremiah 47:7 and declares His intent to "cut off the Cherethims H3774, and destroy the remnant of the sea coast" Ezekiel 25:16.
In summary, H2348 is a specific geographical term that carries significant weight in scripture. As a coast, shore, or haven, it delineates the physical boundaries of the Promised Land and the tribal inheritances within it. Beyond geography, it functions as a stage for both prophetic blessing and divine judgment, illustrating how physical locations in the Bible are imbued with theological purpose.
TRV