### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭîyrâh**, represented by `{{H2918}}`, describes a range of enclosed or constructed places. Appearing **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, its meaning can be translated as a wall, fortress, hamlet, castle, habitation, palace, or row. This term generally signifies a place of human settlement, from a fortified dwelling to a simple architectural feature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2918}}` is used to denote different kinds of structures. It describes the settlements of a people, such as the **castles** of the sons of Ishmael, which are listed alongside their towns `{{H2691}}` and names [[Genesis 25:16]]. In the context of war, these **castles** are treated as significant strongholds, as when the Israelites burn the cities and **castles** of the Midianites with fire [[Numbers 31:10]]. The term can also refer to a dwelling in a more general sense, as in [[Psalms 69:25]], which calls for the **habitation** of the wicked to become desolate. In a unique architectural use, it describes **rows** of boiling places within a specific building [[Ezekiel 46:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of dwellings and settlements:
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall of protection): This word emphasizes the defensive aspect of a settlement. God promises to make Jeremiah like "brasen **walls**" against the land [[Jeremiah 1:18]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city): This term for a larger guarded settlement is used in parallel with `ṭîyrâh`. For instance, both the **cities** and the castles of the enemy were burned [[Numbers 31:10]].
* `{{H2691}}` **châtsêr** (a yard; also a hamlet): This word is used to describe the **towns** of Ishmael's sons, in direct conjunction with their **castles** (`ṭîyrâh`) [[Genesis 25:16]].
* `{{H168}}` **ʼôhel** (a tent... dwelling): In [[Psalms 69:25]], this word for a temporary dwelling is paired with `ṭîyrâh`, asking that both their **habitation** and their **tents** be left empty.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2918}}` is tied to its representation of physical places of human life and community.
* **Markers of Settlement:** The word primarily defines the domains of a people, from the **castles** of nomadic princes [[Genesis 25:16]] to the established **castles** of the Kohathites [[1 Chronicles 6:54]].
* **Symbols of Possession and Conquest:** These structures signify dominion. In a prophecy of judgment, enemies will set their **palaces** (`ṭîyrâh`) in the land as a sign of taking possession [[Ezekiel 25:4]].
* **Metaphorical Value:** The term is used symbolically to convey worth and security. In [[Song of Solomon 8:9]], building a **palace** of silver upon a wall illustrates the act of honoring and protecting something precious.
* **Emblem of Desolation:** Just as its presence indicates life, its ruin signifies judgment. The prayer for an enemy's **habitation** to be desolate is a call for their complete removal from their place [[Psalms 69:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2918}}` is a multifaceted term for a human-made structure. Its application ranges from a fortified **castle** or a royal **palace** to a general **habitation** or an architectural **row**. The word is a key part of the biblical vocabulary for describing settlements, conveying ideas of community, security, and possession. Whether as a literal fortress to be conquered or a metaphorical palace to be built, **ṭîyrâh** consistently refers to a place of human significance and presence.
TRV