מְבוֹאָה

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word mᵉbôwʼâh, represented by H3997, means a haven; entry. As the feminine form of מָבוֹא, it is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its rarity makes its single use particularly significant in its context.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H3997 is in Ezekiel's prophecy against the city of Tyre. God commands the prophet to "say unto Tyrus, O thou that art situate at the entry of the sea, which art a merchant of the people for many isles" Ezekiel 27:3. Here, the word describes Tyre's strategic geographic position as a primary seaport, a gateway to maritime trade and commerce, which was the source of its great wealth and influence.

Related Words & Concepts

The meaning of H3997 is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:

• H6865 Tsôr (Tyre, Tyrus): This is the place being described. The city's identity in the prophecy is directly tied to its location at the "entry" of the sea Ezekiel 27:3.
• H3220 yâm (a sea): This word defines the domain that the "entry" provides access to. Tyre's power was based on its mastery of and access to the sea Ezekiel 27:3.
• H7402 râkal ((spice) merchant): This term describes the function of Tyre that made its "entry" so important. It was a hub for international trade, a "merchant of the people" Ezekiel 27:3.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H3997 is derived entirely from its specific prophetic context.

• Symbol of Worldly Pride: The "entry of the sea" represents the source of Tyre's power, wealth, and arrogance. This pride is condemned when its prince says, "I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas" Ezekiel 28:2.
• Focus of Divine Judgment: The term appears at the beginning of a detailed oracle of judgment. God specifically identifies Tyre by its celebrated position at the "entry" just before declaring its downfall Ezekiel 27:3.
• Gateway for Commerce: The word highlights the city's role as a major center for global trade. Its status as a "merchant of the people for many isles" is a key element of its identity that is being addressed by God Ezekiel 27:3.

Summary

In summary, H3997 is a precise term for an "entry" or "haven" whose biblical significance is locked into its single appearance. Used exclusively to describe the port of Tyre, it encapsulates the city's commercial power and strategic importance. The word serves as the launching point for a prophecy about the pride that arises from such worldly advantage and the divine judgment that follows.