the same as כַּרְמֶל; Karmel, the name of a hill and of a town in Palestine; Carmel, fruitful (plentiful) field, (place).
Transliteration:Karmel
Pronunciation:kar-mel'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3760 (כַּרְמֶל, *Karmel*) serves primarily as a proper noun, designating two distinct geographical locations within ancient Palestine. Etymologically, it is directly linked to H3759 (כַּרְמֶל, *karmel*), which is a common noun meaning "fruitful field," "garden land," "vineyard," or "fresh ears of grain." Thus, the proper noun H3760 signifies a place renowned for its fertility, lushness, and agricultural abundance, embodying the very essence of a "fruitful place." This dual usage—as a common noun for a fertile area and a proper noun for specific locations named for their fertility—is crucial for understanding its semantic range.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
H3760 appears in the Hebrew Bible referring to two principal sites:
1. **Mount Carmel:** This prominent mountain range stretches from the Mediterranean coast southeastward, forming a natural boundary for the Plain of Sharon and overlooking the Jezreel Valley. It is most famously associated with the prophet Elijah.
* In [[1 Kings 18:19-40]], Mount Carmel is the dramatic setting for Elijah's decisive confrontation with the 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah. This event powerfully demonstrates Yahweh's sovereignty over nature and His supremacy over false gods, culminating in a miraculous display of fire from heaven and the subsequent end of a severe drought.
* Prophetic literature frequently references Carmel's renowned beauty and fertility. For instance, [[Song of Solomon 7:5]] compares the beloved's head to Carmel, symbolizing beauty and majesty. [[Jeremiah 46:18]] uses its prominence as a standard for comparison.
* However, Carmel's lushness also serves as a poignant metaphor for divine judgment. Its desolation signifies severe judgment ([[Isaiah 33:9]], [[Amos 1:2]], [[Nahum 1:4]]), while its restoration implies divine blessing and renewal ([[Isaiah 35:2]]).
2. **Carmel (Town in Judah):** This town was situated in the hill country of Judah, south of Hebron ([[Joshua 15:55]]). It is primarily known through its association with Nabal and Abigail.
* In [[1 Samuel 25:2-42]], the town of Carmel is the home of Nabal, a wealthy but foolish sheep owner, and his wise wife, Abigail. This narrative recounts David's interaction with them during his time as an outlaw, highlighting themes of divine providence, wisdom, and the prevention of vengeance.
* King Uzziah is also noted to have had vineyards and fields in Carmel, further underscoring its agricultural significance ([[2 Chronicles 26:10]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is H3759 (כַּרְמֶל, *karmel*), the common noun meaning "fruitful field," "garden land," or "vineyard." The proper noun H3760 is derived from this root, signifying that the places were named for their inherent fertility and natural beauty.
Concepts associated with H3760 include:
* **Fertility and Abundance:** The very name points to rich agricultural land and lush vegetation.
* **Divine Judgment and Blessing:** Carmel's state (flourishing or desolate) often serves as a prophetic indicator of God's favor or wrath upon His people.
* **Prophetic Confrontation:** Mount Carmel, in particular, is indelibly linked to the dramatic showdown between true prophecy and idolatry.
* **Divine Providence:** The events at the town of Carmel illustrate God's active involvement in human affairs, protecting His chosen servants.
* **Beauty and Majesty:** The mountain's grandeur is used metaphorically to describe splendor.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H3760 is multifaceted, stemming from its dual representation as a geographical feature and a place of historical events.
* **Mount Carmel as a Site of Theophany and Decision:** The Elijah narrative on Mount Carmel is a foundational account of Yahweh's unique power and sovereignty. It served as a decisive moment for Israel to choose between Yahweh and Baal, affirming God's unmatched ability to send fire and rain. The mountain thus becomes a symbol of divine revelation, exclusive worship, and the ultimate triumph of truth over idolatry. Its prophetic imagery of desolation and restoration underscores God's justice and His ultimate faithfulness to His covenant.
* **Carmel (Town) as a Setting for Divine Providence:** The narrative involving Nabal and Abigail at the town of Carmel showcases God's providential care for David, His anointed king. Abigail's wise intervention, preventing David from shedding innocent blood, highlights themes of discernment, humility, and God's unseen hand guiding events to protect His purposes. It serves as a practical illustration of God's active involvement in the lives of His people, even in seemingly mundane or conflict-ridden situations.
* **Symbol of Creation's Beauty and God's Order:** The inherent meaning of "fruitful field" embedded in the name Karmel points to the beauty and order of God's creation, a testament to His power and provision.
### Summary
H3760 (כַּרְמֶל, *Karmel*) is a significant proper noun in the Hebrew Bible, designating both the majestic Mount Carmel and a town of the same name in Judah. Derived from the common noun H3759 meaning "fruitful field," the name itself evokes images of fertility, beauty, and abundance. Mount Carmel is preeminently known as the site of Elijah's dramatic confrontation with the prophets of Baal, a pivotal event that underscored Yahweh's exclusive sovereignty and power, serving as a powerful symbol of divine judgment and restoration in prophetic literature. The town of Carmel in Judah is notable for the narrative of Nabal and Abigail, illustrating themes of divine providence and wisdom in human affairs. Together, these locations, bearing the name Karmel, contribute richly to the biblical narrative, embodying theological truths concerning God's supremacy, justice, and providential care for His people.
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