### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3194 (Yuṭṭâh) is a proper noun, identifying a specific geographical location. Its etymological root is derived from the verb [[H5186 (nâṭâh)]], which carries a rich semantic range encompassing actions such as "to stretch out," "to extend," "to incline," "to spread out," or "to pitch (a tent)." Consequently, the name "Juttah" itself conveys the meaning of "extended" or "stretched forth." This suggests that the place may have been known for its expansive terrain, an elongated settlement, or perhaps a location from which something was extended or pitched. As a proper noun, its primary function is to denote a particular place, yet its etymological heritage provides a subtle layer of meaning related to expansion and orientation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Juttah is mentioned twice in the book of Joshua, providing insight into its geographical and functional significance within ancient Israel.
1. **[[Joshua 15:55]]**: Juttah is listed among the cities of the hill country of Judah, specifically within the tribal inheritance allotted to the tribe of Judah. It is enumerated alongside other significant towns such as Maon, Carmel, Ziph, and Jezreel, placing it firmly within the southern highlands of Judah. This initial mention establishes its territorial belonging and its role as a recognized settlement within the divinely apportioned land.
2. **[[Joshua 21:16]]**: In this passage, Juttah is designated as one of the cities given to the sons of Aaron, who were Kohathite Levites. These cities were allocated to the Levitical families to ensure their presence throughout the land of Israel, enabling them to fulfill their priestly and instructional duties. The specific mention of Juttah as a Levitical city underscores its importance not merely as a geographical point but as a center for spiritual administration and the dissemination of the Law among the tribes.
These occurrences indicate Juttah's dual identity as both a territorial possession of Judah and a designated sacred site for the Levitical priesthood, highlighting the meticulous organization and divine provision for the new nation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for H3194 (Yuṭṭâh) is its root verb, [[H5186 (nâṭâh)]]. This verb is highly versatile and frequently used throughout the Old Testament, denoting a variety of actions related to stretching, extending, or inclining. Examples include:
* **Stretching out a hand or arm**: Often associated with divine power or human supplication, as in God stretching out His hand in judgment or deliverance ([[Exodus 9:22]]) or a person stretching out their hands in prayer ([[Psalm 88:9]]).
* **Spreading out a tent**: Illustrating the act of setting up encampments, as seen with Abraham pitching his tent ([[Genesis 12:8]]).
* **Incline the ear or heart**: Metaphorically referring to paying attention or directing one's disposition, as in inclining one's ear to wisdom ([[Proverbs 2:2]]) or one's heart to God's testimonies ([[Psalm 119:36]]).
* **Turning aside from a path**: Indicating deviation or turning away, as in turning aside from justice ([[Exodus 23:2]]).
While H3194 is a proper noun and does not share the verbal functions of its root, its etymological link subtly connects it to broader biblical themes of divine action (extension of power), human response (inclination of heart), and the establishment of order (spreading out of territories or tents). The name "Juttah" thus carries a latent echo of expansion and orientation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Juttah, though a place name, is profound due to its specific designation within the divine economy of Israel.
1. **Divine Allotment and Promise Fulfillment**: Juttah's inclusion in the inheritance of Judah ([[Joshua 15:55]]) is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants regarding the land. The meticulous division of the land under Joshua's leadership reflects divine order and sovereignty, ensuring each tribe received its rightful portion.
2. **Levitical Priesthood and Spiritual Governance**: Most significantly, Juttah's allocation to the Kohathite Levites ([[Joshua 21:16]]) elevates its status beyond a mere geographical point. Levitical cities served as centers for religious instruction, judicial administration, and the maintenance of the Mosaic Law throughout the land. By strategically placing Levites within these cities, God ensured that spiritual guidance and legal wisdom were accessible to all tribes, fostering national adherence to His commandments. This arrangement underscores God's concern for the spiritual well-being and moral order of His people.
3. **Extension of God's Presence**: The name "Juttah" ("extended") could be seen as a subtle theological metaphor. The presence of the Levites in Juttah signifies the "extension" of God's law, presence, and covenant into the very fabric of the Israelite territory, reaching out to the people. It demonstrates God's desire to dwell among His people and to provide the means for their sanctification.
### Summary
H3194 (Yuṭṭâh) is a proper noun referring to a town located in the hill country of Judah. Its name, derived from [[H5186 (nâṭâh)]], means "extended" or "stretched forth." Biblically, Juttah is noted in [[Joshua 15:55]] as part of Judah's tribal inheritance and, more significantly, in [[Joshua 21:16]] as one of the cities specifically allocated to the Kohathite Levites. This designation highlights its crucial role as a center for Levitical service, underscoring God's meticulous plan for the distribution of the land and the establishment of spiritual governance throughout Israel. The theological significance of Juttah lies in its representation of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, His provision for spiritual instruction and justice through the Levites, and the symbolic "extension" of His divine presence and law into the land.
TRV