### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mâgôwg**, represented by `{{H4031}}`, refers to both a person and a place. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. Its base definition identifies **Magog** as a son of Japheth and also as a barbarous northern region, setting a dual identity that is reflected in its biblical usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4031}}` is first introduced in a genealogical context. The lists in both Genesis and 1 Chronicles name **Magog** as one of the sons of Japheth, establishing his place among the descendants of Noah who repopulated the earth after the flood ([[Genesis 10:2]], [[1 Chronicles 1:5]]). Later, in the prophecies of Ezekiel, the name shifts from a person to a place, identified as "the land of **Magog**" [[Ezekiel 38:2]]. This land is the domain of Gog and is depicted as a hostile northern power. The Lord declares that He will send a fire on **Magog**, an act of judgment to demonstrate His sovereignty [[Ezekiel 39:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the identity and role of Magog:
* `{{H1463}}` **Gôwg** (Gog, the name of an Israelite, also of some nothern nation; Gog.): This name is inextricably linked to Magog in prophecy, with Ezekiel addressing "Gog, the land of Magog" [[Ezekiel 38:2]].
* `{{H3315}}` **Yepheth** (expansion; Jepheth, a son of Noah; also his posterity; Japheth.): As the father of Magog, Japheth is the progenitor of the lineage listed in the Table of Nations [[Genesis 10:2]].
* `{{H4902}}` **Meshek** (Meshek, a son of Japheth, and the people descended from him; Mesech, Meshech.): Listed as a brother to Magog [[Genesis 10:2]], Meshech is also associated with Gog's forces in Ezekiel's prophecy [[Ezekiel 38:2]].
* `{{H8422}}` **Tûwbal** (Tubal, a postdiluvian patriarch and his posterity; Tubal.): Like Meshech, Tubal is a brother of Magog and is mentioned alongside him as part of Gog's domain [[Ezekiel 38:2]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is essential for establishing the genealogical connection of Magog as one of "the sons of Japheth" [[Genesis 10:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4031}}` is twofold, spanning from historical lineage to eschatological prophecy.
* **Genealogical Marker:** In Genesis and 1 Chronicles, Magog functions as a key name in the Table of Nations, outlining the distribution of peoples descended from Noah's son Japheth ([[Genesis 10:2]], [[1 Chronicles 1:5]]).
* **Symbol of Hostile Power:** In Ezekiel, the "land of Magog" represents a remote and formidable antagonist. It is the seat of Gog, whose armies are prophesied to come against Israel [[Ezekiel 38:2]].
* **Object of Divine Judgment:** Ultimately, Magog serves as a subject of God's sovereign power. The prophecy of fire being sent on Magog demonstrates that even the most distant and hostile nations are under God's authority and subject to His judgment [[Ezekiel 39:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4031}}` transitions from being a name in a patriarchal lineage to representing a powerful and hostile northern region in prophecy. Initially listed simply as a son of Japheth, Magog is later redefined in Ezekiel as the territory of Gog, an entity destined to face divine judgment. This dual identity illustrates how a biblical name can serve to map both the families of humanity and the forces at play in God's sovereign plan.
TRV