### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭûwr**, represented by `{{H2905}}`, primarily means a **row** or a wall. It appears 26 times across 20 unique verses in the Bible. The term comes from a root meaning to range in a regular manner, and it is used to describe orderly arrangements in both sacred and architectural contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2905}}` is used to describe orderly and structured arrangements, particularly in contexts of sacred worship and royal architecture. It is prominently featured in the description of the high priest's breastplate, which was to have "four **rows** of stones" ([[Exodus 28:17]], [[Exodus 39:10]]). The word also defines architectural structures in Solomon's Temple, such as the inner court built with "three **rows** of hewed stone, and a **row** of cedar beams" [[1 Kings 6:36]]. Furthermore, it is used for decorative elements, including "two hundred pomegranates in **rows** round about" on the pillar chapiters [[1 Kings 7:20]] and the "two **rows** of oxen" cast for the great sea [[2 Chronicles 4:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of orderly structure and materials:
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root is fundamental to the architectural context of `{{H2905}}`. It is used to describe the action of constructing the temple courts with "**rows**" of stone and cedar [[1 Kings 6:36]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (a stone): This word is frequently paired with `{{H2905}}` to describe the material being arranged. The high priest's breastplate, for instance, was to have "four **rows** of stones" [[Exodus 28:17]].
* `{{H1496}}` **gâzîyth** (dressed stone): This specifies the type of material used in the architectural rows, indicating skilled workmanship, as seen in the construction of the inner court with "**rows** of hewed stone" [[1 Kings 6:36]].
* `{{H2918}}` **ṭîyrâh** (a wall; row): This feminine equivalent is used in parallel with `{{H2905}}` to describe rows of structures, such as the "boiling places under the **rows**" in Ezekiel's vision [[Ezekiel 46:23]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2905}}` is rooted in the biblical emphasis on divine order and intentional design.
* **Divine Order:** The meticulous arrangement of gems into **rows** on the high priest's breastplate [[Exodus 28:17]] and the specified **rows** of materials for the temple's courts [[1 Kings 6:36]] highlight a God of order, not chaos. The structure is part of the sacred instruction.
* **Structured Beauty:** The term is used not just for foundational elements but also for decorative features like **rows** of pomegranates [[1 Kings 7:18]] and cast oxen [[2 Chronicles 4:3]]. This connects the concept of orderly arrangement with aesthetic beauty, reflecting a design that is both functional and glorious.
* **Architectural Integrity:** In passages like [[1 Kings 7:2]], where the "house of the forest of Lebanon" is built upon "four **rows** of cedar pillars," the word underscores the strength and stability derived from a well-ordered foundation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2905}}` **ṭûwr** is a specific term that signifies more than just a line of objects. It conveys a sense of divine order, structural integrity, and intentional beauty. Whether describing the precious gems on the priest's breastplate [[Exodus 28:17]], the foundational layers of the LORD's house [[1 Kings 6:36]], or the ornate decorations on its pillars [[1 Kings 7:20]], **ṭûwr** consistently points to a world designed with precision, purpose, and glory.
TRV