### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yᵉrêkâh**, represented by `{{H3411}}`, is a feminine term used figuratively to denote a **rear or recess**, **border**, **coast**, or **side**. It appears **28 times** across **28 unique verses**, consistently referring to the extremities or inner recesses of a place or object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H3411}}` is used to define both geographic and structural boundaries. It describes the furthest reaches of the world, as when God promises to gather Israel from the "coasts{H3411} of the earth{H776}" [[Jeremiah 31:8]]. The term is also used to describe specific locations, such as the "sides{H3411} of the north{H6828}," a phrase associated with Mount Zion [[Psalms 48:2]]. In a more confined sense, it denotes the inner parts of a structure, like when David hid in the "sides{H3411} of the cave{H4631}" [[1 Samuel 24:3]] or Jonah went down into the "sides{H3411} of the ship{H5600}" [[Jonah 1:5]]. Its use is also prominent in the architectural details of the tabernacle [[Exodus 26:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the contexts in which `{{H3411}}` appears:
* `{{H776}}` **'erets** (the earth; a land): This word for the earth or a country is often qualified by `yᵉrêkâh` to signify its farthest boundaries, as in the "coasts{H3411} of the earth{H776}" [[Jeremiah 50:41]].
* `{{H4908}}` **mishkân** (a residence; specifically, the Tabernacle): The construction of the Tabernacle is described with precise detail, including the making of boards for its "sides{H3411}" [[Exodus 36:27]], defining its sacred dimensions.
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This term is frequently paired with `yᵉrêkâh` to describe the "side{H3411} of mount{H2022} Ephraim" [[Judges 19:1]] or the "sides{H3411} of Lebanon{H3844}" [[2 Kings 19:23]].
* `{{H953}}` **bôwr** (a pit hole): Used figuratively for the grave, `yᵉrêkâh` describes its innermost recesses, as in the "sides{H3411} of the pit{H953}" [[Isaiah 14:15]], indicating the finality of death and judgment.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3411}}` is demonstrated in its application to divine power, judgment, and blessing.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Restoration:** The term defines the vast scope of God's redemptive work, as He promises to gather His people from the "coasts{H3411} of the earth{H776}" [[Jeremiah 31:8]]. It also describes the reach of His judgment, raising up nations from these same remote regions [[Jeremiah 6:22]].
* **The Depths of Judgment:** Figuratively, `yᵉrêkâh` marks the ultimate destination of the wicked. The king who arrogantly sought to sit in the "sides{H3411} of the north{H6828}" [[Isaiah 14:13]] is instead brought down to the "sides{H3411} of the pit{H953}" [[Isaiah 14:15]].
* **Sacred and Domestic Blessing:** The word is used to describe the intimate space of a blessed household, where a wife is like a fruitful vine by the "sides{H3411} of thine house{H1004}" [[Psalms 128:3]]. It is also used with precision in defining the sacred architecture of the tabernacle [[Exodus 26:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3411}}` **yᵉrêkâh** is a versatile term that moves from the literal to the figurative with significant theological implications. It defines the physical boundaries of a house, a cave, or the Tabernacle, while also encompassing the vast "coasts of the earth." This word illustrates how Scripture uses spatial concepts to articulate profound truths about the scope of God's sovereignty, the finality of His judgment, and the intimacy of His blessing.
TRV