### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâʻôwr**, represented by `{{H3264}}`, is a specific term for **a forest; wood**. It is a variation of another Hebrew word and appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly significant within its prophetic context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3264}}` is in [[Ezekiel 34:25]], where it is part of a divine promise of restoration and security. God declares He will make a "covenant of peace" and remove evil beasts from the land, allowing His people to "dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the **woods**." Here, the woods are transformed from a place of potential danger into a symbol of absolute safety and peaceful rest under God's protection.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context of `{{H3264}}`:
* `{{H3293}}` **yaʻar** (forest, wood): This is the more common term for a forest and is used directly alongside `{{H3264}}` in its only appearance. It describes a copse of bushes or a forest, a place that can be dangerous [[Jeremiah 5:6]] but is here depicted as a place of safety.
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): Mentioned in the same promise, this word for a pasture or desert illustrates the totality of God's peace, which extends to all wild and untamed places [[Ezekiel 34:25]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, to remain): This word describes the action of the people in the wilderness. It implies not just a temporary stay but a settled, secure habitation provided by God.
* `{{H3462}}` **yâshên** (sleep): This describes the state of ultimate trust and peace experienced in the woods. To sleep in such a location signifies the complete absence of fear [[Ezekiel 34:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3264}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful image.
* **Covenant of Peace:** The woods become a tangible sign of God's "covenant of peace" `{{H1285}}` `{{H7965}}`. A place once associated with danger from "evil beasts" `{{H7451}}` `{{H2416}}` is rendered completely safe [[Ezekiel 34:25]].
* **Divine Security:** The ability to sleep `{{H3462}}` in the woods demonstrates a profound level of security `{{H983}}` and trust that comes only from God's direct intervention and protection.
* **Restoration of Creation:** The verse points to a restored order where humanity can live in harmony with nature, free from the threats that exist in a fallen world. God causes the evil beasts to cease `{{H7673}}` from the land `{{H776}}`, making the wilderness and woods places of sanctuary.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3264}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its contribution is significant. It is not merely a word for "woods" but a symbol of a divinely transformed environment. Its use in [[Ezekiel 34:25]] encapsulates a profound theological promise: a future where God’s covenant of peace brings such complete safety that even the wildest places on earth become havens of rest.
TRV