### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **ʼAznôwth Tâbôwr**, represented by `{{H243}}`, refers to a specific location in Palestine defined as the **flats (i.e. tops) of Tabor**. Its name indicates it was situated on or near Mount Tabor. This place name is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H243}}` is in [[Joshua 19:34]], where it functions as a critical landmark in the demarcation of a tribal boundary. The verse states that "the coast turneth westward to **Aznothtabor**, and goeth out from thence to Hukkok." This places `{{H243}}` as a pivotal point from which the border changes direction, illustrating its role in the highly detailed process of allotting the promised land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context help define the purpose and action surrounding this location:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (coast): This word means "a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed; border, bound, coast." It is used throughout scripture to define the limits of land promised and given by God [[Deuteronomy 11:24]] and is central to the concept of inheritance and national identity.
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (turneth): Defined as "to turn back," this verb signifies a change in direction. While used here for a physical border, it is often used theologically for the turning of the heart to God [[Joel 2:12]] or the restoration of the soul [[Psalms 23:3]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (goeth out): This verb, meaning "to go out," describes the border proceeding from `{{H243}}`. It is the same word used for God’s word going forth from His mouth [[Isaiah 55:11]] and for the prophesied ruler who would "come forth" from Bethlehem [[Micah 5:2]].
* `{{H6293}}` **pâgaʻ** (reacheth): Meaning to "impinge, meet, reach," this word describes the border making contact with other territories. It is also used powerfully to mean making intercession [[Isaiah 53:12]] or to "lay" iniquity upon the Lord's servant [[Isaiah 53:6]].
### Theological Significance
Though a simple place name, the context of `{{H243}}` carries theological weight related to God's covenant promises.
* **Divine Boundaries:** The mention of `{{H243}}` is part of the meticulous recording of the borders `{{H1366}}` God established for his people. This act of defining territory is a fulfillment of His promise to "enlarge thy border" [[Deuteronomy 12:20]].
* **Ordered Fulfillment:** The path of the border is described with active verbs like "turneth" `{{H7725}}` and "goeth out" `{{H3318}}`, suggesting a deliberate and divinely guided progression. This echoes the way God’s redemptive plans and His Word proceed to accomplish His will [[Isaiah 55:11]].
* **Landmarks of Promise:** Aznoth-tabor serves as a fixed point in the landscape, anchoring God's abstract promise of land into concrete, physical reality for the people of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H243}}` is a geographical marker, **Aznoth-tabor**, mentioned once in scripture. Its significance is not in the name itself but in its function as a landmark within the biblical narrative of God's faithfulness. It marks a point where the coast `{{H1366}}` turns `{{H7725}}`, goes out `{{H3318}}`, and reaches `{{H6293}}` its next destination, illustrating how even minor geographical details are woven into the grand tapestry of God's covenant fulfillment.
TRV