### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Ṭabbath**, represented by `{{H2888}}`, is a proper name for a location. Its derivation is uncertain, but it is identified as **a place East of the Jordan**. This name appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making it a highly specific geographical marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H2888}}` is in the book of Judges. Following the actions of Gideon's **three** `{{H7969}}` **hundred** `{{H3967}}` men who **blew** `{{H8628}}` their **trumpets** `{{H7782}}`, the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` caused the enemy host to turn on itself. In the ensuing chaos, the host **fled** `{{H5127}}` along a route that ended "unto **Tabbath**" [[Judges 7:22]]. Tabbath serves as a landmark defining the extent of this divinely orchestrated rout.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Tabbath is defined by the actions and elements surrounding it in its only mention:
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flit, i.e. vanish away): This word describes the action that brings the narrative to Tabbath. The enemy host **fled** to this location, marking it as a destination in their retreat [[Judges 7:22]].
* `{{H8628}}` **tâqaʻ** (to clatter... blow (a trumpet)): This is the verb describing the catalyst for the flight. The three hundred men **blew** the trumpets, initiating the panic that led towards Tabbath. This word is often used for sounding an alarm or a call to worship [[Joel 2:1]].
* `{{H7782}}` **shôwphâr** (a cornet... or curved horn): This refers to the instrument used. The sound of the **trumpets** was the signal of God's intervention, causing the enemy to flee [[Judges 7:22]]. The shophar is frequently used to announce significant events or the presence of the LORD [[Psalms 47:5]].
### Theological Significance
While Tabbath itself holds no direct theological weight, the event it is associated with is significant. Its sole mention is embedded in a narrative that illustrates key theological truths:
* **Divine Intervention:** The primary actor in the event is the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, who "set every man's sword against his fellow" [[Judges 7:22]]. Tabbath is thus a geographical footnote to a story about God's direct power in human conflict.
* **Victory Through Unconventional Means:** The rout was not achieved by military might but by the blowing of trumpets by a small band of men, demonstrating God's ability to use the weak to overcome the strong. The flight towards Tabbath is the result of this miracle.
* **A Landmark of God's Power:** The mention of Tabbath serves to ground a miraculous event in a real, physical location, marking the spot as a testament to the enemy's flight caused by the hand of the LORD.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2888}}` **Ṭabbath** is a place name with a single, specific function in the biblical text. It is not a term with broad meaning but a geographical point of reference. Its importance is derived entirely from its context in [[Judges 7:22]], where it marks the endpoint of a panicked flight initiated not by human strength, but by the direct intervention of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. Tabbath serves as a permanent, geographical witness to this specific act of God.
TRV