feminine of יָרֵךְ; properly, the flank; but used only figuratively, the rear or recess; border, coast, part, quarter, side.
Transliteration:yᵉrêkâh
Pronunciation:yer-ay-kaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3411 (יְרֵכָה, yᵉrêkâh) is a feminine noun derived from `{{H3409}}` (יָרֵךְ, yarekh), which primarily denotes the "thigh" or "flank" of the body. While the root `{{H3409}}` can refer to a literal physical part, H3411 (yᵉrêkâh) is used exclusively in a figurative sense within the biblical text. Its core meaning shifts from a physical extremity to a spatial one, signifying the "flank," "rear," "recess," "border," "coast," "part," "quarter," or "side."
This semantic range consistently points to an extreme edge, a remote or hidden area, or a defined boundary. It can refer to the innermost, most secluded part of a structure, or the outermost, most distant part of a geographical region. The nuance conveyed is often one of extremity, whether of proximity (deep within) or distance (far away). It describes a periphery, a hidden corner, or the furthest reach of a given space.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H3411 appears in various contexts, consistently conveying the idea of an edge, extremity, or remote location.
1. **Geographical Extremities:** Often, yᵉrêkâh describes the "uttermost parts" or "sides" of the earth or a land. For instance, in [[Jeremiah 6:22]] and [[Jeremiah 50:41]], it refers to nations coming from the "sides of the earth," emphasizing their vast distance and the comprehensive nature of the impending judgment. Similarly, [[Psalm 48:2]] speaks of "Mount Zion, on the sides of the north," denoting its location at the outer edge or northern extremity of the city, possibly highlighting its prominence or vulnerability. [[Judges 19:1]] mentions a Levite dwelling "on the sides of Mount Ephraim," indicating a border region or a remote area within the mountainous territory.
2. **Architectural Recesses/Sides:** In descriptions of the Tabernacle or Temple, yᵉrêkâh can denote the "sides" or "recesses" of the structure. For example, [[1 Kings 6:16]] describes the inner sanctuary (Most Holy Place) being separated by a partition, implying its location within the "sides" or innermost part of the temple. This usage highlights the defined boundaries and distinct areas within sacred architecture. The "sides" of the altar, as in [[Exodus 27:7]], refer to its lateral edges, where the poles were inserted for carrying.
3. **Figurative Extremities:** The concept extends to more abstract "sides" or "parts." [[1 Samuel 24:3]] (Hebrew verse 4) describes Saul entering a cave to relieve himself, and David and his men are said to be "remaining in the sides of the cave," meaning in its innermost, most secluded parts. This indicates a hidden, concealed location.
Across these contexts, H3411 consistently marks a boundary, a remote point, or a secluded area, underscoring the limits or extent of a space, whether physical or conceptual.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to H3411 is its masculine root, `{{H3409}}` (יָרֵךְ, yarekh), meaning "thigh" or "flank." The semantic progression from a physical body part (the thigh, often associated with strength, procreation, or the side of the body) to a spatial extremity (the "side" or "recess" of a place) is significant. This derivation underscores the idea of an "outer part" or "extremity."
Other Hebrew words that convey concepts of "end," "border," or "corner" share a semantic field with H3411:
* `{{H7097}}` (קָצֶה, qatseh): "end," "border," "extremity." This word often describes the ultimate limit of something.
* `{{H6285}}` (פֵּאָה, pe'ah): "corner," "side," "edge." This term frequently refers to the corners of a field or a garment.
* `{{H8615}}` (תָּוֶךְ, tavekh): "middle," "midst." While opposite in meaning, understanding the "middle" helps to define the "sides" or "extremities" that yᵉrêkâh describes.
The relationship between these terms helps to delineate the comprehensive spatial vocabulary of the Hebrew Bible, where yᵉrêkâh specifically highlights a remote, often hidden, or peripheral aspect of a given space.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H3411 largely stems from its consistent portrayal of extremities and remote places, which often serve as backdrops for divine action and human experience.
1. **Divine Omnipresence and Dominion:** When yᵉrêkâh refers to the "uttermost parts of the earth" ([[Psalm 139:9]]), it powerfully conveys the boundless nature of God's presence and sovereignty. Even in the most distant or hidden corners, beyond human reach or comprehension, God is present and active. This emphasizes His universal dominion and the inescapable reality of His gaze.
2. **Instruments of Divine Judgment:** The mention of nations coming from the "sides of the earth" ([[Jeremiah 6:22]], [[Jeremiah 50:41]]) often signifies God's use of distant, formidable forces as instruments of His judgment. This illustrates the vast scope of His providential control, orchestrating events even from the remotest regions to fulfill His purposes.
3. **Sacred Boundaries and Holiness:** In architectural contexts, describing the "sides" or "recesses" of the Tabernacle or Temple ([[1 Kings 6:16]]) underscores the sanctity and defined boundaries of God's dwelling place. These "sides" delineate the sacred space, emphasizing the separation between the holy and the profane, and the structured access to divine presence.
4. **Human Vulnerability and Refuge:** Places described by yᵉrêkâh can also represent areas of vulnerability or, conversely, refuge. Being in the "sides of the cave" ([[1 Samuel 24:3]]) implies a hidden, precarious existence, yet also a place of temporary safety from pursuit. This speaks to the human condition of seeking shelter or being exposed in the remote corners of life.
### Summary
H3411 (יְרֵכָה, yᵉrêkâh) is a significant Hebrew term that, while rooted in the physical "thigh" or "flank," is used exclusively in the biblical text to denote figurative "extremities." Its semantic range encompasses "rear," "recess," "border," "coast," "part," "quarter," and "side," consistently pointing to the outermost, innermost, or most remote parts of a geographical area or structure.
Contextual analysis reveals its application to the "uttermost parts of the earth," emphasizing vast distances and divine omnipresence or the scope of judgment. It also describes the "sides" or "recesses" of architectural spaces like the Tabernacle and Temple, highlighting sacred boundaries and internal divisions. Theologically, yᵉrêkâh contributes to understanding God's boundless dominion, His use of distant nations as agents of His will, the holiness and order of His dwelling places, and the human experience within defined or remote spaces. Ultimately, yᵉrêkâh serves as a rich descriptor of spatial limits and the profound implications they hold within the biblical narrative of God's interaction with His creation.
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