### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chereth**, also rendered as **Hereth** and represented by `{{H2802}}`, refers to a **forest** or **thicket in Palestine**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 verse** within the biblical text. Its meaning is derived from its function as a proper name for a particular woodland.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H2802}}` is in the narrative of **David** `{{H1732}}` during his flight from Saul. The **prophet** `{{H5030}}` **Gad** `{{H1410}}` **said** `{{H559}}` to David that he should not **abide** `{{H3427}}` in the **hold** `{{H4686}}` but should **depart** `{{H3212}}` and go into the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Judah** `{{H3063}}`. Following this divine command, David **came** `{{H935}}` into the **forest** `{{H3293}}` of **Hareth** `{{H2802}}` [[1 Samuel 22:5]]. This location serves as a place of transit and temporary refuge for David as he follows prophetic guidance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Hereth connects it to several key actions and places that define this moment in David's life:
* `{{H3293}}` **ya'ar** (forest): This is the general Hebrew term for a **forest** or **wood**. The text specifies that David came to the "**forest** of Hareth," linking the proper name `{{H2802}}` directly to the type of place it was [[1 Samuel 22:5]]. This term is used elsewhere to describe places of dense trees [[Isaiah 44:23]].
* `{{H4686}}` **mâtsûwd** (hold): This word can mean **fortress**, **strong hold**, or snare. David is commanded to leave the relative security of the "hold" for the wilderness of the forest, marking a significant transition in his journey [[1 Samuel 22:5]]. The term is often used poetically to describe God as a fortress [[Psalms 18:2]].
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (to walk): This root word, used for "depart" in the passage, means **to walk** or **go**. It signifies the action of obedience David takes in response to God's command through the prophet Gad, physically moving from one stage of his trial to the next [[1 Samuel 22:5]]. It is often used to describe walking in God's ways [[Micah 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H2802}}` is a place name, its theological weight is found in its narrative function in the life of David.
* **Obedience to Prophetic Word:** David's move to the forest of Hereth is a direct result of heeding the command of the **prophet** `{{H5030}}` Gad. It exemplifies a critical moment of obedience to God's revealed will during a time of great uncertainty [[1 Samuel 22:5]].
* **Divine Providence:** The command to leave the hold and enter the forest demonstrates God's active guidance and protection of His anointed, David. The forest becomes a location within the plan of God, situated specifically in the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Judah** `{{H3063}}`, David's own tribal territory.
* **A Place of Transition:** Hereth is not a final destination but a temporary setting. It represents a period of hiding and reliance on God in the wilderness, a necessary step in David’s path toward the throne of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **Chereth** `{{H2802}}` is a specific geographical location whose significance is entirely tied to its single mention in scripture. Though just a name for a forest, its importance is elevated by its context. It marks a key moment of faith and obedience in the life of **David** `{{H1732}}`, illustrating how even minor details of geography in the biblical narrative can highlight major themes of divine guidance, faithfulness, and the providential journey of God's chosen leaders.
TRV