### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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}}`.
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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