The Hebrew word Laqqûwm, represented by H3946, is a place name in Palestine, Lakum. Its definition is derived from an unused root believed to mean "to stop up by a barricade," suggesting a meaning of fortification. This word appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference.
The sole appearance of H3946 is in the book of Joshua, where it is used to define a territorial boundary. The verse describes a border that runs through several named locations, culminating at Lakum before its end point at the Jordan River. The text states that the coast ran "unto Lakum; and the outgoings thereof were at Jordan" Joshua 19:33, positioning it as a key landmark in the delineation of the land.
Several related words appear alongside H3946 in Joshua 19:33, providing geographical and thematic context:
- H1366 gᵉbûwl (coast): This word, meaning a boundary or border, establishes the context of the passage. It is used to describe God's promise to set the bounds of the land Exodus 23:31 and to enlarge them Exodus 34:24.
- H2995 Yabnᵉʼêl (Jabneel): Meaning "built of God," this is another place name listed immediately before Lakum in the same boundary line Joshua 19:33. It also appears as a border point elsewhere Joshua 15:11.
- H3383 Yardên (Jordan): Meaning "a descender," this refers to the Jordan River, which served as the final point for the boundary that included Lakum Joshua 19:33. The Jordan is a significant landmark throughout scripture, associated with cleansing and entry into the promised land 2 Kings 5:14.
While H3946 itself is a minor geographical point, its context within a divinely established border carries theological weight. The act of defining borders is central to God's covenant with Israel.
- Divine Sovereignty: The meticulous listing of places like Lakum within a border H1366 underscores God's sovereignty in appointing territory. God promises to set the bounds of the land for his people Exodus 23:31.
- Promise and Peace: These defined borders represent the fulfillment of God's promise and the establishment of security. Scripture states that God "maketh peace in thy borders" Psalms 147:14.
- Hope of Restoration: A defined border symbolizes a rightful inheritance. This is reflected in the prophetic hope that God's children would "come again to their own border" Jeremiah 31:17.
In summary, H3946 is the proper name Lakum, likely signifying a fortified place. Its single mention in scripture serves a practical purpose: to mark a point on a geographical border in Joshua 19:33. Although a minor detail, its inclusion in a list defining a tribal coast connects it to the larger biblical themes of God's faithfulness in allotting the promised land, establishing sovereign boundaries, and providing a place of peace and security for His people.
TRV