### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Leshem**, represented by `{{H3959}}`, refers to **a place in Palestine**. It appears **2 times** within **1 unique verse**, marking a specific geographical location significant for its role in the narrative of the tribe of Dan's settlement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3959}}` is mentioned in the account of the tribe of Dan's expansion. When the coast allotted to the **children** `{{H1121}}` of **Dan** `{{H1835}}` was not enough, they went up to **fight** `{{H3898}}` against **Leshem** `{{H3959}}`. The Danites successfully **took** `{{H3920}}` the city, **smote** `{{H5221}}` it with the **edge** `{{H6310}}` of the **sword** `{{H2719}}`, and **possessed** `{{H3423}}` it. After they came to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` there, they **called** `{{H7121}}` **Leshem** by a new **name** `{{H8034}}`: Dan, after their forefather [[Joshua 19:47]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the context of Leshem's capture:
* `{{H1835}}` **Dan**: This word represents the tribe descended from **Dan**, one of Jacob's sons, as well as their territory [[Joshua 19:47]]. The renaming of Leshem to Dan signifies the tribe's colonization and establishment of their heritage in a new place.
* `{{H3423}}` **yarash** (to occupy...possess): This term signifies the result of the conquest, where the Danites took full possession of the land after driving out its previous tenants. The concept of possessing the land is a recurring theme, as seen in the promise that the meek **shall inherit** the earth [[Psalms 37:11]].
* `{{H7121}}` **qara'** (to call...give name): This action marks the final step in the narrative, where the Danites renamed Leshem to Dan, asserting their identity and lineage over the conquered territory [[Joshua 19:47]]. This act of naming is significant throughout scripture, as when God's people are **called** by His name [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of this event is found in the actions surrounding the place itself.
* **Fulfillment of Inheritance:** The capture of Leshem represents the tribe of Dan actively securing their allotted territory when their initial portion was insufficient. This act aligns with the broader Old Testament theme of Israel's call to **possess** `{{H3423}}` the land promised to them [[Joshua 19:47]].
* **Transformation through Naming:** The renaming of the city from Leshem to Dan is a powerful act of claiming and redefining identity. By **calling** `{{H7121}}` the place after their **father** `{{H1}}`, the Danites integrate the conquered land into their heritage, linking it to their tribal **name** `{{H8034}}` [[Joshua 19:47]].
* **Conquest and Settlement:** The story illustrates the process of Israel's settlement in Canaan. The Danites' need for more land led them to **fight** `{{H3898}}` and **take** `{{H3920}}` what they required, demonstrating a practical step in establishing the tribal borders within the promised land [[Joshua 19:47]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3959}}` **Leshem** is a geographical name whose biblical importance is tied entirely to a single event of conquest and renaming. Its narrative in [[Joshua 19:47]] serves as a specific example of how the Israelite tribes established their territory. The story of Leshem's transformation into Dan illustrates the themes of securing an inheritance, the power of a **name** `{{H8034}}` to establish identity, and the active role of God's people in possessing their promised land.
TRV