from an unused root meaning to pile up; properly, accumulated; i.e. (by implication) a summit; middle, midst.
Transliteration:ṭabbûwr
Pronunciation:tab-boor'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2872}}` (ṭabbûwr) derives from an unused root that conveys the sense of "to pile up" or "to accumulate." From this foundational meaning, the word extends semantically to describe that which is "accumulated," leading by implication to "a summit" or "peak," as a high point is an accumulation of material. Further, it can denote the "middle" or "midst," referring to a central point, perhaps conceived as the accumulated core. While its literal anatomical meaning is "navel" (as the central point of the body), `{{H2872}}` itself is not the primary word for the human navel; rather, it is used metaphorically to describe a central or prominent geographical location. Its rare usage in the biblical text (occurring only twice) underscores its specialized and evocative nature, consistently referring to a significant, central place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H2872}}` appears in two distinct biblical contexts, both employing it metaphorically to describe a geographical center:
1. **Judges 9:37**: "And Gaal spoke again and said, 'Look, people are coming down from the navel of the land, and one company is coming by the way of the Diviners' Oak.'" Here, "the navel of the land" (טַבּוּר הָאָרֶץ) refers to a central, elevated, or strategically important part of the region around Shechem. It signifies a prominent and perhaps vital location, from which forces could descend. The imagery evokes a place of origin or critical mass, much like the human navel is a point of connection and nourishment. The context is military observation, highlighting the strategic significance of this central point.
2. **Ezekiel 38:12**: "to seize plunder and to carry off booty, to turn your hand against the waste places which are now inhabited, and against the people who are gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who dwell in the navel of the earth." In this prophetic passage concerning the invasion of Gog, "the navel of the earth" (טַבּוּר הָאָרֶץ) describes the land of Israel. This metaphor underscores Israel's unique and central position in God's redemptive plan and in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient world. It suggests that Israel, though seemingly vulnerable, is a focal point for divine action and a target for those who oppose God's purposes. The phrase implies a place of prosperity and security, making it an attractive target for plunder, yet it is precisely this centrality that draws God's ultimate intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H2872}}` is unique in its precise form and metaphorical application, its semantic range connects it to several broader Hebrew concepts:
* **Centrality/Middle**: Concepts of "middle" or "center" are often conveyed by words like `{{H8432}}` (tôkh) or `{{H7130}}` (qerev), which denote the inner part or midst of something. `{{H2872}}` specifically emphasizes a *prominent* or *vital* center.
* **Summit/Height**: Ideas of elevation or high places are found in terms such as `{{H7218}}` (rô'sh, "head" or "top"), `{{H4791}}` (mârôm, "height"), or `{{H1361}}` (gavôah, "high"). `{{H2872}}` combines the idea of elevation (as a summit) with centrality.
* **Navel Imagery**: The metaphorical use of "navel" (though not the anatomical term `{{H8482}}` tâbûr) is crucial. The navel symbolizes a point of origin, connection, and sustenance, making its application to a land or earth profoundly significant. It implies a place that is essential, life-giving, and perhaps vulnerable due to its centrality.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H2872}}` to describe "the navel of the land/earth" carries profound theological weight. In Judges, it highlights the strategic and perhaps divinely appointed significance of certain geographical locations within the promised land. It implies that the land of Israel, or specific areas within it, are not merely arbitrary territories but possess a unique centrality from a divine perspective.
More significantly, in Ezekiel, the designation of Israel as "the navel of the earth" firmly establishes its preeminent place in God's global plan. This is not a claim of human pride but a divine declaration of Israel's unique role as the locus of God's covenant, revelation, and redemptive activity. Despite its apparent vulnerability to surrounding nations, its centrality means it is under divine watch and will ultimately be the stage for God's dramatic intervention and vindication. The imagery suggests that just as the navel is essential for life and connection, so Israel is central to God's purposes for all humanity, serving as a conduit for His truth and a testament to His power. Its "centrality" makes it both a target for evil and the focal point for God's ultimate glory.
### Summary
`{{H2872}}` (ṭabbûwr) is a rare but powerful Hebrew term, derived from a root meaning "to pile up," signifying an "accumulated" point, whether a "summit" or a "middle/midst." Its two biblical occurrences metaphorically describe a geographical location as "the navel of the land" or "the navel of the earth." In Judges 9:37, it denotes a strategic, central point in the land of Israel. In Ezekiel 38:12, it profoundly designates Israel as the central and vital place on earth, a focal point for divine action and human conflict. The term underscores Israel's unique theological significance as the heart of God's redemptive plan, a place both prosperous and vulnerable, yet ultimately central to the unfolding of God's sovereign will.
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