or מָגֻר; from גּוּר in the sense of lodging; a temporary abode; by extension, a permanent residence; dwelling, pilgrimage, where sojourn, be a stranger. Compare מָגוֹר.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâgûwr**, represented by `{{H4033}}`, refers to a temporary abode or a place of sojourning. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses. Derived from a root meaning to lodge as a guest, its definition extends from a temporary stay to a permanent residence, often carrying the sense of a **pilgrimage** or the experience of being a stranger in a land.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4033}}` is central to the story of the patriarchs. The land of Canaan is repeatedly described as the land of their **pilgrimage** or the place "wherein thou art a stranger" ([[Genesis 17:8]], [[Genesis 37:1]]). This theme is poignantly expressed by Jacob, who describes the years of his life as a **pilgrimage** [[Genesis 47:9]]. The term is also used to denote a physical dwelling place, sometimes with negative connotations, such as a place of wickedness [[Psalms 55:15]] or a dwelling that will be left without any remaining inhabitants [[Job 18:19]]. In Ezekiel, it signifies the land from which rebels will be brought forth but barred from entering Israel [[Ezekiel 20:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the concept of sojourning and dwelling:
* `{{H1481}}` **gûwr** (to sojourn): As the root word for `{{H4033}}`, this term means to "sojourn (as a guest)". This foundational sense of being a temporary visitor is explicitly linked in Exodus, which describes the land of Canaan as the land of their **pilgrimage** `{{H4033}}` where "they were strangers" `{{H1481}}` [[Exodus 6:4]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, remain): This word, meaning to settle or remain, often appears in connection with `{{H4033}}`. For instance, Jacob "dwelt" `{{H3427}}` in the land where his father "was a stranger" `{{H4033}}`, highlighting the transition from sojourning to settling [[Genesis 37:1]].
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash** (to inherit, possess): This term is crucial for understanding the purpose of the sojourn. The promise given to the patriarchs was that their descendants would "inherit" `{{H3423}}` the land wherein they were strangers `{{H4033}}`, connecting the temporary pilgrimage to a future, permanent possession [[Genesis 28:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4033}}` is significant, establishing key spiritual concepts.
* **Life as a Pilgrimage:** The term elevates a physical journey to a spiritual metaphor. Jacob's description of his life as a "pilgrimage" [[Genesis 47:9]] and the psalmist's reference to the "house of my pilgrimage" [[Psalms 119:54]] frame earthly existence as a temporary state.
* **Faith in a Promised Land:** The patriarchs lived as sojourners in the very land God promised to give them ([[Genesis 17:8]], [[Exodus 6:4]]). This reality underscores a life of faith, dwelling in a place not yet fully possessed but held by divine promise.
* **The Nature of One's Dwelling:** The word can describe both the dwelling of the wicked, which is marked for judgment [[Psalms 55:15]], and the dwelling of the righteous pilgrim, which is filled with songs of God's statutes [[Psalms 119:54]]. This shows that the character of one's sojourn is defined by their relationship with God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4033}}` is far more than a word for a temporary home. It is a cornerstone concept in the patriarchal narratives, defining their identity as sojourners living by faith in God's covenant promises. The word captures the profound tension between a temporary, earthly pilgrimage and the assurance of a future, divine inheritance, illustrating how the believer's life is a journey through a land they do not yet fully possess.
TRV