a form of לְחִי; Lechi, a place in Palestine; Lehi. Compare also רָמַת לֶחִי.
Transliteration:Lechîy
Pronunciation:lekh'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term לֶחִי (Lechîy), Strong's number `{{H3896}}`, designates a specific geographical location in ancient Palestine. While the lemma itself is a proper noun, its etymological root is deeply significant. It is explicitly noted as "a form of" לְחִי (lechî), which is Strong's number `{{H3895}}`, meaning "jawbone" or "cheek." This etymological connection strongly suggests that the place Lehi was named either because of a prominent geographical feature resembling a jawbone or, more famously, in commemoration of a pivotal event involving a jawbone. The latter is certainly the case in its primary biblical context. Thus, the semantic range of Lechîy as a place name is inextricably linked to the physical object "jawbone," serving as a permanent memorial to a miraculous act of divine deliverance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The place name לֶחִי (Lechîy) occurs exclusively in the book of Judges, specifically in the narrative of Samson. Its primary appearance is in [[Judges 15:9]], [[Judges 15:14]], [[Judges 15:19]]. The context is critical: after Samson's great slaughter of the Philistines, the Philistines encamp in Judah, seeking to capture him. The men of Judah, fearing reprisal, bind Samson and deliver him to the Philistines at Lehi. It is at this very location that the Spirit of the LORD comes powerfully upon Samson, causing the ropes to snap. He then finds a fresh jawbone of a donkey and uses it to strike down a thousand Philistine men ([[Judges 15:15-16]]).
Following this astonishing victory, Samson is parched and cries out to God. In response, God miraculously causes water to flow from a hollow place "which was in Lehi" ([[Judges 15:19]]), refreshing Samson. This spring was subsequently named Enhakkore, "the spring of him who called." The narrative further states that Samson named the place "Ramath-Lehi" (רָמַת לֶחִי), meaning "Jawbone Hill" or "The Height of the Jawbone" ([[Judges 15:17]]), solidifying the association between the place, the instrument of victory, and God's intervention. Thus, Lehi is not merely a geographical marker but a site consecrated by divine power, human weakness, and miraculous provision.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to לֶחִי (Lechîy) is its root, לְחִי (lechî), `{{H3895}}`, meaning "jawbone" or "cheek." This connection is fundamental, as the place derives its name from the very instrument Samson employed in his victory. The narrative also introduces רָמַת לֶחִי (Ramath-Lehi), incorporating the term רָמַת (Ramath), `{{H7414}}`, meaning "height" or "hill," further specifying the topography of this significant site.
Beyond linguistic ties, Lehi is conceptually linked to several key biblical themes and figures:
* **Samson:** He is the central human agent in the events at Lehi. His extraordinary strength, inspired by the Spirit of the LORD, is vividly displayed here.
* **Divine Intervention and Miracle:** The provision of water from Lehi's ground highlights God's direct involvement and miraculous provision for His servant, echoing earlier instances of water from rock (e.g., [[Exodus 17:6]]).
* **Deliverance:** Lehi stands as a monument to God's deliverance of Israel from Philistine oppression through an unlikely means.
* **Weakness and Strength:** The fragile jawbone, an unconventional weapon, underscores the theme that God's strength is made perfect in human weakness ([[2 Corinthians 12:9]]). Samson's subsequent thirst, despite his victory, also emphasizes his ultimate dependence on God.
### Theological Significance
The site of Lehi carries profound theological significance. Firstly, it powerfully demonstrates God's ability to work through the most improbable and seemingly insignificant means to achieve His purposes. A common donkey's jawbone, an object of no inherent power, becomes the instrument of a thousand-man victory, underscoring that the power belongs to God, not to the weapon or the wielder. This resonates with the biblical principle that God often chooses the weak and foolish things of the world to shame the strong and wise ([[1 Corinthians 1:27]]).
Secondly, Lehi is a testament to divine provision and faithfulness. Samson's cry for water, born of extreme exhaustion and desperation after his monumental effort, elicits a miraculous response from God. The spring of Enhakkore, "the spring of him who called," serves as a perpetual reminder that God hears the cries of His servants and provides for their needs, even in the most desolate circumstances. This act of provision is not just physical sustenance but a spiritual affirmation of God's presence and care.
Finally, Lehi underscores the theme of Israel's deliverance through a divinely chosen judge. While Samson was flawed, God used him as an instrument to begin the process of liberating Israel from Philistine domination. The events at Lehi mark a significant moment in this ongoing struggle, showcasing God's commitment to His covenant people and His active role in their history.
### Summary
לֶחִי (Lechîy), Strong's number `{{H3896}}`, is a place name in ancient Palestine, etymologically linked to the Hebrew word for "jawbone" (`{{H3895}}`). It is prominently featured in the book of Judges as the site where Samson, empowered by the Spirit of the LORD, used a donkey's jawbone to defeat a thousand Philistines ([[Judges 15:15]]). Following this victory, God miraculously provided water from Lehi to quench Samson's thirst ([[Judges 15:19]]), leading Samson to name the location Ramath-Lehi, "Jawbone Hill." The theological significance of Lehi lies in its powerful illustration of God's ability to achieve great victories through unconventional means, His faithful provision for His servants, and His ongoing work of deliverance for His people. It stands as a lasting memorial to divine power made perfect in human weakness and ultimate dependence on God.
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