### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chereç**, represented by `{{H2776}}`, is defined as "shining" and is used as the proper name for **Heres**, a mountain in Palestine. This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, marking it as a significant geographical location in a particular historical account.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical reference to `{{H2776}}` occurs in [[Judges 1:35]], where Mount **Heres** is the site of a territorial dispute. In this passage, the **Amorites** `{{H567}}` are recorded as persistently choosing to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` in this location. The narrative resolves with the "hand of the house of Joseph" prevailing `{{H3513}}` over them, resulting in the Amorites being subjected to forced labor as **tributaries** `{{H4522}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from [[Judges 1:35]] provide context for the events at Mount **Heres**:
* `{{H567}}` **ʼĔmôrîy** (Amorite): This term identifies one of the Canaanitish tribes, described as a "mountaineer." The **Amorites** are the people who refused to cede Mount Heres to the Israelites, representing a key obstacle in the conquest of the land [[Judges 1:35]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell): This root word, meaning to sit down, dwell, or remain, is used to describe the Amorites' insistence on staying in Mount **Heres**. It highlights their refusal to be driven out [[Judges 1:35]].
* `{{H4522}}` **maç** (tribute): Defined as a burden or a tax in the form of forced labor, this word describes the final status of the Amorites. After the house of Joseph prevailed, the inhabitants of Mount Heres became **tributaries**, signifying their subjugation [[Judges 1:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2776}}` is derived entirely from its singular context in the narrative of Israel's conquest.
* **Contested Inheritance:** Mount **Heres** serves as a concrete example of the challenges Israel faced in possessing the promised land. The refusal of the **Amorites** `{{H567}}` to leave highlights the theme of opposition to God's covenant promises.
* **The Nature of Conquest:** The events at **Heres** illustrate that Israel's control over the land was not always immediate or complete. The Amorites were able to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` there for a time, showing a period of unresolved conflict.
* **Eventual Sovereignty:** The outcome of the conflict, where the house of Joseph **prevailed** `{{H3513}}` and turned the inhabitants into **tributaries** `{{H4522}}`, underscores the theme of Israel's eventual, divinely-supported authority over the land and its peoples.
### Summary
In summary, **Chereç** `{{H2776}}` functions exclusively as a geographical marker, Mount **Heres**. Its importance is not in a broad conceptual meaning but in its role as the setting for a specific historical event in [[Judges 1:35]]. This single verse uses the location of Mount **Heres** to frame a narrative about the struggle for control of the promised land, showcasing themes of local resistance, protracted conflict, and the ultimate establishment of Israelite authority.
TRV