### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Middîyn**, represented by `{{H4081}}`, is the name of a specific place, **Middin**. The term is identified as a variation of a word linked to Midjan, a son of Abraham. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its role as a precise geographical marker rather than a common noun.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H4081}}` is in a geographical list found in the book of Joshua. The verse states, "In the wilderness, Betharabah, Middin, and Secacah" [[Joshua 15:61]]. In this context, **Middin** is presented as one of a group of towns located within a specific region. Its mention serves to help define the boundaries and settlements of a territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in the same verse, providing geographical context for Middin:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): This word defines the type of region where Middin is located. It is described as "a pasture... a desert... wilderness" and is the setting for significant events, such as Israel's wanderings [[Deuteronomy 8:2]] and prophetic calls [[Isaiah 40:3]].
* `{{H1026}}` **Bêyth hâ-ʻĂrâbâh** (Beth-arabah): Meaning "house of the Desert," this is another town listed alongside Middin in the wilderness [[Joshua 15:61]].
* `{{H5527}}` **Çᵉkâkâh** (Secacah): Defined as an "inclosure," this is the third town named in the list with Middin, solidifying its place within a cluster of settlements in the same area [[Joshua 15:61]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4081}}` is primarily geographical and historical.
* **Territorial Marker:** Its inclusion in the list in [[Joshua 15:61]] establishes it as a known location during the time of the settlement of the promised land. It functions as a specific point of reference in an official record of towns.
* **Wilderness Setting:** Being situated "in the wilderness" `{{H4057}}` places Middin in a context rich with biblical symbolism. The wilderness is often portrayed as a place of divine testing, solitude, and preparation, as seen when David was in the "wilderness of Judah" [[Psalms 63:1]] or when God promises to "make a way in the wilderness" [[Isaiah 43:19]].
* **Fixed Location:** By being named with **Betharabah** `{{H1026}}` and **Secacah** `{{H5527}}`, Middin is anchored to a specific, identifiable region, underscoring the detailed and concrete nature of the biblical land allotments.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4081}}` refers to a town named **Middin**. Its importance is derived not from frequent use but from its singular, precise mention in scripture. Appearing once in a list of cities in the wilderness, it serves as a historical and geographical anchor in the biblical text, contributing to the detailed account of the division of the land.
TRV