probably from גּוּר; a lodging; Jagur, a place in Palestine; Jagur.
Transliteration:Yâgûwr
Pronunciation:yaw-goor'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3017}}` (Yâgûwr) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition is "a lodging," derived from the root `{{H1481}}` (gûr), which means "to sojourn, dwell, abide, or be a stranger." Thus, while `{{H3017}}` itself denotes a fixed location, its etymological root imbues it with the semantic sense of a place associated with temporary dwelling, a sojourner's stop, or a place of rest for those who are not permanent residents. Its semantic range is therefore limited to this singular geographical designation, yet it carries the conceptual echo of its verbal root.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H3017}}` (Yâgûwr) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible.
* In [[Joshua 15:21]], Jagur is listed as one of the "uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward." The verse reads: "And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur."
The context is a detailed enumeration of the cities allocated to the tribe of Judah as part of their inheritance in the Promised Land. Jagur is situated in the Negeb, the southern desert region of Judah, near the border with Edom. Its mention is purely geographical, serving to delineate the tribal boundaries and confirm the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel regarding their land inheritance. As a place name, its significance in this context is primarily cartographical and historical, marking a specific point within the divinely appointed territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to `{{H3017}}` is its root verb, `{{H1481}}` (gûr), meaning "to sojourn, dwell temporarily, or reside as an alien." This root gives rise to several crucial theological concepts:
* **Sojourner/Alien (ger):** The noun form *ger* (from `{{H1481}}`) refers to a resident alien or stranger. This concept is foundational in Israelite law and theology, emphasizing God's command to care for the vulnerable, including the sojourner (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 10:19]], [[Leviticus 19:34]]).
* **Transience of Life:** The idea of sojourning often highlights the temporary nature of human life on earth, portraying humanity as pilgrims or temporary residents (e.g., [[Psalm 39:12]], [[1 Chronicles 29:15]]).
* **Hospitality:** The duty of hospitality, particularly towards strangers, is a recurring theme, linked to the experience of Israel as sojourners in Egypt and God's own hospitality towards His people.
While `{{H3017}}` itself is a place name, its derivation from `{{H1481}}` subtly connects it to these broader themes of dwelling, impermanence, and the status of the "ger" within the land.
### Theological Significance
As a singular geographical reference, the direct theological significance of `{{H3017}}` (Yâgûwr) is limited. It primarily serves as evidence of the meticulous fulfillment of God's promise to grant specific territorial inheritances to the tribes of Israel. The detailed lists of cities in Joshua underscore the divine precision and faithfulness in establishing Israel within the land.
However, the etymological connection to `{{H1481}}` (gûr, "to sojourn") offers a subtle theological resonance. A place named "Lodging" or "Place of Sojourning" within the divinely promised land could be seen as an echo of several themes:
* **Israel as Sojourners:** Even within their permanent inheritance, Israel was reminded that the land ultimately belonged to God, and they were but "sojourners and tenants" with Him ([[Leviticus 25:23]]). The name Jagur might subtly reinforce this theological truth, even for those settled in their own territory.
* **Divine Provision for Rest:** A "lodging" implies a place of rest or temporary stay. In the context of the conquest and settlement, it could symbolize the rest God provided for His people after their long journey and battles.
* **Hospitality and Openness:** While speculative, the name could also evoke the concept of a place open to others, reflecting the biblical imperative of hospitality, even within defined borders.
### Summary
`{{H3017}}` (Yâgûwr) is a unique proper noun, identifying a specific city within the territory of the tribe of Judah, mentioned only once in [[Joshua 15:21]]. Its meaning, "lodging," derives from the Hebrew root `{{H1481}}` (gûr), which signifies "to sojourn" or "to dwell temporarily." While its primary biblical function is geographical, marking a boundary city in the Negeb, its etymological root subtly connects it to profound theological concepts. These include the transient nature of human life, the biblical theme of the "sojourner" (*ger*) and the associated commands for hospitality, and the understanding of Israel's own status as sojourners in the land given by God. Thus, Jagur stands as a quiet reminder, embedded in the very geography of the Promised Land, of deeper truths regarding divine provision, human pilgrimage, and the enduring nature of God's covenant.
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