### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chărâdâh**, represented by `{{H2732}}`, is a proper name for **Haradah, a place in the Desert**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively marking a specific location during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. Its meaning is tied entirely to its function as a geographical waypoint.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2732}}` serves as a single stop in the detailed travel log of the Israelites. The name appears as they journey toward the promised land, situating it between Mount Shapher and Makheloth. The Scriptures state that the Israelites "encamped in **Haradah**" [[Numbers 33:24]] and subsequently "removed from **Haradah**" to continue their travels [[Numbers 33:25]]. Its sole purpose in the text is to document one stage of this prolonged journey.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Haradah is defined by the actions of arriving and departing, represented by two key related words:
* `{{H2583}}` **chânâh** (to encamp or pitch a tent): This word describes the action of the Israelites stopping and dwelling at Haradah. It signifies a temporary rest or settlement, a concept seen elsewhere when the Israelites **encamped** by the waters at Elim [[Exodus 15:27]] or when the Levites were instructed to **encamp** around the tabernacle [[Numbers 1:50]].
* `{{H5265}}` **nâçaʻ** (to pull up tent-pins or start on a journey): This term marks the beginning of movement, both in arriving at and leaving Haradah. It is used broadly to describe Israel's travels, such as when Moses declared, "We are **journeying** unto the place of which the LORD said, I will give it you" [[Numbers 10:29]].
### Theological Significance
While the name `{{H2732}}` itself carries no direct theological weight, its context within the wilderness journey is significant.
* **A Marker in a Divine Itinerary:** The mention of Haradah is part of a divinely guided journey. The associated verb for traveling, `{{H5265}}`, is the same used to describe God bringing his people, as a vine, out of Egypt [[Psalms 80:8]], and for the ark of the covenant going before them to find a resting place [[Numbers 10:33]].
* **The Theology of Encampment:** The act of encamping, `{{H2583}}`, at places like Haradah is a core element of Israel's relationship with God in the desert. The same word is used metaphorically for God's divine protection, as when "the angel of the LORD **encampeth** round about them that fear him" [[Psalms 34:7]] and when God promises, "I will **encamp** about mine house" [[Zechariah 9:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2732}}` **Chărâdâh** is a geographical name whose significance is derived entirely from its place in the Israelites' journey. While a minor detail, it is part of a meticulously recorded itinerary that underscores the structured and purposeful nature of the wilderness wanderings. The associated actions of journeying `{{H5265}}` and encamping `{{H2583}}` connect this specific location to the broader theological themes of divine guidance and protection that define Israel's story.
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