### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Môwphaʻath**, represented by `{{H4158}}`, is a proper name for a place in Palestine. Derived from a root meaning **illuminative**, it appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. Its occurrences are primarily within geographical lists that designate specific locations within the land of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4158}}` is consistently identified as a city. It is named as one of the locations in the **plain** `{{H4334}}` **country** `{{H776}}` upon which **judgment** `{{H4941}}` from God has **come** `{{H935}}`, listed alongside **Holon** `{{H2473}}` and **Jahazah** `{{H3096}}` [[Jeremiah 48:21]]. In Joshua and 1 Chronicles, **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}` is included in the allocation of territory, mentioned with **Jahazah** `{{H3096}}` and **Kedemoth** `{{H6932}}` [[Joshua 13:18]]. It was designated as a Levitical city with its associated lands.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role and nature of **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}`:
* `{{H6932}}` **Qᵉdêmôwth** (beginnings; Kedemoth, a place in eastern Palestine; Kedemoth): This city is paired with **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}` in lists of cities that were given with their **suburbs** `{{H4054}}` to the Levites ([[Joshua 21:37]]; [[1 Chronicles 6:79]]).
* `{{H4054}}` **migrâsh** (a suburb (i.e. open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around abuilding, or the margin of the sea; cast out, suburb): This term is explicitly used to describe the pasture lands assigned to **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}`, signifying its function as one of the Levitical **cities** `{{H5892}}` with provisions for its inhabitants ([[Joshua 21:37]]; [[1 Chronicles 6:79]]).
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree): The mention of **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}` is directly tied to the execution of divine **judgment** `{{H4941}}` upon the land of the plain [[Jeremiah 48:21]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense): **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}` is identified as one of **four** `{{H702}}` **cities** `{{H5892}}` in a group that was allocated to the Levites, highlighting its status as an established settlement [[Joshua 21:37]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4158}}` is tied to its geographical and historical context within scripture.
* **Divine Judgment:** The appearance of **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}` in Jeremiah's prophecy connects a physical place to the theme of God's sovereignty and His execution of **judgment** `{{H4941}}` upon the nations [[Jeremiah 48:21]].
* **Covenant Inheritance:** Its inclusion in Joshua and 1 Chronicles illustrates the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel. Specifically, it was part of the designated inheritance for the Levites, showing God's provision for those set apart for His service ([[Joshua 21:37]]; [[1 Chronicles 6:79]]).
* **Divine Order:** The careful listing of **Mephaath** `{{H4158}}` among specific groups of **cities** `{{H5892}}` with their **suburbs** `{{H4054}}` demonstrates the theme of divine order and administration in the apportionment of the Promised Land.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4158}}` **Môwphaʻath** is more than just a name on a map; it is a location that serves as a backdrop for key biblical themes. While its primary role is geographical, it functions as a tangible site for the enactment of divine **judgment** and as a component of the sacred inheritance provided by God to His people. Its story shows how a single city can bear witness to both the justice and the faithfulness of God.
TRV