### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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