The Hebrew phrase Chôr hag-Gidgâd, represented by H2735, is the name of a location in the Desert, Hor-hagidgad. Its name means hole of the cleft. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the record of Israel's wanderings.
In the biblical narrative, H2735 functions as a specific waypoint in the Israelites' journey. The record in Numbers shows that the Israelites "removed" from Benejaakan and "encamped" at Horhagidgad Numbers 33:32. Immediately following, they "went" from Horhagidgad and "pitched" in Jotbathah Numbers 33:33. These two verses mark its sole appearances, situating it as a temporary stop on the path through the wilderness.
The context of Hor-hagidgad's appearances highlights two key verbs related to travel and temporary settlement:
- H5265 nâçaʻ: This verb means to "start on a journey" or "remove." It is used to describe the Israelites leaving their previous location to go to Horhagidgad Numbers 33:32 and then departing from Horhagidgad itself Numbers 33:33.
- H2583 chânâh: Defined as "to encamp" or "pitch a tent," this verb marks the arrival and settling at a location. The Israelites "encamped" at Horhagidgad Numbers 33:32 before continuing their journey.
While not a term with deep doctrinal meaning on its own, the significance of H2735 is found in its narrative function within the Pentateuch.
- Historical Marker: The mention of Hor-hagidgad is part of a precise itinerary, reinforcing the historical account of Israel's journey. It serves as a geographical anchor point in the wilderness narrative Numbers 33:32-33.
- Journey and Providence: Its role as a waypoint, framed by the acts of departing H5265 and encamping H2583, underscores the continuous nature of Israel's travels. The detailed listing of such places points to a guided and chronicled pilgrimage.
In summary, H2735 Chôr hag-Gidgâd is a specific place name, "hole of the cleft," that marks a stop in Israel's wilderness wanderings. Though its usage is limited to two verses, its presence in the biblical record serves to map out the journey from Egypt. It functions less as a theological concept and more as a historical and geographical detail, illustrating a single step in the meticulously recorded pilgrimage of the nation.
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