### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼÊylôwth**, represented by `{{H359}}`, is the name for **Eloth or Elath, a place on the Red Sea**. It appears **8 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself is derived from a word meaning "trees or a grove (i.e. palms)".
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H359}}` is identified as a strategic port city. King Solomon established a **navy of ships** `{{H590}}` there, located beside Eziongeber on the **shore** `{{H8193}}` of the Red **sea** `{{H3220}}` in the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Edom** `{{H123}}` ([[1 Kings 9:26]], [[2 Chronicles 8:17]]). Before this, it was a landmark on the journey of the Israelites as they passed "through the **way** `{{H1870}}` of the **plain** `{{H6160}}` from Elath" [[Deuteronomy 2:8]]. The city's importance is further highlighted by accounts of it being **built** `{{H1129}}` and **restored** `{{H7725}}` to **Judah** `{{H3063}}` ([[2 Kings 14:22]], [[2 Chronicles 26:2]]). However, it was a contested territory, as **Rezin** `{{H7526}}` **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Syria** `{{H758}}` later recovered Elath and **drave** `{{H5394}}` the **Jews** `{{H3064}}` from it [[2 Kings 16:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the history and location of Elath:
* `{{H123}}` **ʼĔdôm** (Edom): Eloth is repeatedly located within the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Edom** ([[1 Kings 9:26]], [[2 Chronicles 8:17]]), establishing its geographical setting as a region associated with the descendants of **Esau** `{{H6215}}`.
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This word is used to describe the construction and fortification of Elath, an act that **restored** `{{H7725}}` it to **Judah** `{{H3063}}` ([[2 Kings 14:22]], [[2 Chronicles 26:2]]). It signifies establishment and repair.
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back): This verb is used to describe the changing control of Elath. It was **restored** to **Judah** `{{H3063}}` ([[2 Kings 14:22]], [[2 Chronicles 26:2]]), and later **recovered** by **Syria** `{{H758}}` [[2 Kings 16:6]], highlighting its status as a contested city.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H359}}` is primarily historical and geopolitical, marking a location of strategic importance for the kingdom of Israel.
* **Center for Naval Power:** Solomon's choice to make a **navy of ships** `{{H590}}` at Eloth demonstrates its critical role in Israel's economic and military strategy on the Red **sea** `{{H3220}}` [[1 Kings 9:26]].
* **Symbol of Territorial Control:** The accounts of Elath being **built** `{{H1129}}` and **restored** `{{H7725}}` to **Judah** `{{H3063}}`, and later being lost to **Syria** `{{H758}}`, frame the city as a barometer of the kingdom's strength and its ability to maintain its borders ([[2 Kings 14:22]], [[2 Kings 16:6]]).
* **Geographical Landmark:** Its mention in Deuteronomy as a point along the Israelites' journey from **Seir** `{{H8165}}` anchors its place in the foundational narrative of the nation's travels [[Deuteronomy 2:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H359}}` represents more than just a location; it is a focal point of commerce, construction, and conflict. As **Elath** or **Eloth**, this port city on the Red **sea** `{{H3220}}` was essential to Solomon's maritime ambitions and a key asset for the kingdom of **Judah** `{{H3063}}`. Its history of being built, captured, and recaptured underscores its strategic value and illustrates the shifting political landscape of the region.
TRV