### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Lᵉbânôwn**, represented by `{{H3844}}`, refers to **Lebanon**, a mountain range in Palestine. Its name comes from a root meaning white, referencing the white mountain, so-called from its snow. It appears **71 times** across **64 unique verses**, signifying its importance as both a geographical landmark and a powerful symbol in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3844}}` is used to define the borders of the promised land ([[Deuteronomy 11:24]], [[Joshua 1:4]]). It is renowned for its majestic **cedars** `{{H730}}` and **fir trees** `{{H1265}}`, which were highly sought after for significant construction projects. These trees were used to build the house of the forest of **Lebanon** [[1 Kings 7:2]], to supply timber for the sanctuary [[Ezra 3:7]], and to make masts for ships [[Ezekiel 27:5]]. Figuratively, its name evokes images of beauty, strength, and fragrance, as seen in poetic descriptions where a countenance is compared to **Lebanon** [[Song of Solomon 5:15]] and the smell of garments is like the smell of **Lebanon** [[Song of Solomon 4:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide geographical and descriptive context for Lebanon:
* `{{H730}}` **'erez** (cedar tree): This tree is the most famous product of Lebanon, symbolizing strength and loftiness. The phrase "cedars of **Lebanon**" appears frequently in contexts of both majesty and judgment ([[Psalms 29:5]], [[Isaiah 14:8]]).
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): This word defines Lebanon's physical nature as a mountain or range of hills. It is often referred to as "mount **Lebanon**" [[Judges 3:3]].
* `{{H1316}}` **Bâshân** (Bashan): A region east of the Jordan, often mentioned alongside Lebanon in prophecies describing the languishing or flourishing of the land ([[Nahum 1:4]], [[Isaiah 33:9]]).
* `{{H3760}}` **Karmel** (Carmel): Another prominent fruitful hill, its "excellency" is often paired with the "glory" of Lebanon to describe the land's restored beauty [[Isaiah 35:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3844}}` is significant, representing concepts of both divine glory and human pride.
* **Symbol of Glory and Fruitfulness:** The "glory of **Lebanon**" signifies the splendor of God's creation, promised to be given to the restored land [[Isaiah 35:2]]. Its flourishing represents divine blessing and stability, with the righteous growing "like a cedar in **Lebanon**" [[Psalms 92:12]].
* **Representation of Earthly Power:** Because of its towering cedars, Lebanon symbolizes earthly pride and power that stands in opposition to God. Prophets foretell its downfall as an act of divine judgment, stating that "**Lebanon** shall fall by a mighty one" [[Isaiah 10:34]].
* **Metaphor for Transformation:** Prophecy uses Lebanon to illustrate radical transformation. It is foretold that "**Lebanon** shall be turned into a fruitful field," symbolizing a miraculous renewal of what was once wild [[Isaiah 29:17]].
* **Source for Worship:** The finest materials from Lebanon, such as its cedars, were brought to "beautify the place of my sanctuary" [[Isaiah 60:13]]. However, even its vast forests and beasts are "not sufficient to burn" as a worthy offering to God [[Isaiah 40:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3844}}` **Lᵉbânôwn** is far more than a geographical location. It is a cornerstone of biblical imagery, representing the peak of natural splendor and earthly strength. While it literally provided the timber for Israel's most sacred structures, it also served as a powerful metaphor for both the majestic glory bestowed by God and the towering pride destined for judgment. Its use illustrates the transformation from a physical mountain range to a symbol of divine restoration and blessing.
TRV