### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **ʼÊyl Pâʼrân**, represented by `{{H364}}`, is a proper name for a location. Its base definition is **oak of Paran; El-Paran, a portion of the district of Paran; El-paran**. This specific name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of `{{H364}}` occurs in [[Genesis 14:6]], where it serves as a geographical marker. The verse describes the territory of the Horites, noting they were "in their mount Seir, unto **Elparan**, which is by the wilderness." This context establishes **El-paran** as a landmark defining the extent or boundary of the area associated with the Horites in that region.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H364}}` is clarified by the words used alongside it in its only appearance:
* `{{H2752}}` **Chôrîy** (Horites): Defined as a "cave-dweller or troglodyte," this term identifies the people group inhabiting the region of Mount Seir where **El-paran** is located [[Genesis 14:6]].
* `{{H2042}}` **hârâr** (mount): Meaning "a mountain; hill, mount(-ain)," this word specifies the type of terrain the Horites occupied [[Genesis 14:6]].
* `{{H8165}}` **Sêʻîyr** (Seir): A proper name meaning "rough," this refers to the specific mountain of Idumaea where the narrative takes place [[Genesis 14:6]].
* `{{H5921}}` **ʻal** (by): A preposition used to show relation, signifying location "above, over, upon, or against." In this context, it places **El-paran** next to the wilderness [[Genesis 14:6]].
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): This word describes a "pasture... by implication, a desert; also speech... wilderness," indicating that **El-paran** was situated at the edge of an uncultivated region [[Genesis 14:6]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical significance of `{{H364}}` is established entirely by its singular context in the narrative.
* **Boundary Marker:** **El-paran** functions as a waypoint or boundary, marking the limit of the Horite domain in Mount Seir as described in the account [[Genesis 14:6]].
* **Transitional Location:** Its placement "by the **wilderness**" `{{H4057}}` suggests it is a landmark on the border between the mountainous region of Seir and the adjacent desert or pasture land.
* **Point of Reference:** The name, meaning "oak of Paran," provides a precise point of reference within the broader geography of the district of Paran, connecting a specific feature to the larger region.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H364}}` **ʼÊyl Pâʼrân** is a precise place name used once in scripture to define a location. Its sole appearance in [[Genesis 14:6]] fixes its position as a landmark associated with the **Horites** `{{H2752}}` in **mount** `{{H2042}}` **Seir** `{{H8165}}`, adjacent to the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}`. Rather than carrying theological weight, its importance is purely geographical, providing a specific and vivid detail within the biblical landscape.
TRV