### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Môwreh**, represented by `{{H4176}}`, refers to a geographical location in Canaan. According to its base definition, it can be a hill, possibly named after a Canaanite, or a place name itself. The term appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, marking it as a significant landmark in the Old Testament narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H4176}}` serves as a key geographical marker. It is first mentioned as the "plain of **Moreh**" near Sichem, one of the first places Abram travels to upon entering the land [[Genesis 12:6]]. Later, it appears as the "hill of **Moreh**," which was the site of the Midianite camp just before their defeat by Gideon's army [[Judges 7:1]]. Finally, the "plains of **Moreh**" are used as a landmark to orient the Israelites toward the location for the ceremony of blessings and curses, described as being near Gilgal [[Deuteronomy 11:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to establish the context and location of Moreh:
* `{{H436}}` **'êlôwn** (plain): This word, meaning "an oak or other strong tree; plain," is used to describe the area of Moreh in both Genesis and Deuteronomy, indicating a notable grove of trees or a plain ([[Genesis 12:6]], [[Deuteronomy 11:30]]).
* `{{H7927}}` **Shᵉkem** (Shechem): Defined as a "ridge; Shekem, a place in Palestine," this city is the landmark Abram traveled to, where he found the plain of Moreh [[Genesis 12:6]].
* `{{H1389}}` **gibʻâh** (hill): This term, meaning "a hillock; hill, little hill," is used specifically to describe the "hill of **Moreh**" where the Midianites were camped before facing Gideon [[Judges 7:1]].
* `{{H1439}}` **Gidʻôwn** (Gideon): This Israelite warrior, whose name means "feller," pitched his camp near the hill of Moreh before his famous victory [[Judges 7:1]].
* `{{H1537}}` **Gilgâl** (Gilgal): Moreh is located in the vicinity of this important site, helping to specify its location in the instructions given in Deuteronomy [[Deuteronomy 11:30]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical significance of `{{H4176}}` is demonstrated through its connection to foundational events in Israel's history.
* **A Patriarchal Landmark:** Its appearance in the narrative of Abram's arrival in the land establishes it as an early, significant site in the story of the patriarchs and the promise of the land [[Genesis 12:6]].
* **A Site of Divine Deliverance:** The hill of Moreh serves as the backdrop for one of Israel's key military victories under the Judges, where Gideon's small force defeated the host of Midian [[Judges 7:1]].
* **A Navigational Point for Covenant:** In Deuteronomy, the plains of Moreh are part of the detailed instructions for Israel's covenant-keeping, pointing the way to the place where the nation would affirm its commitment to God's law [[Deuteronomy 11:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4176}}` consistently functions as a significant place name within the biblical landscape. Though appearing only three times, **Môwreh** is associated with pivotal moments in the narrative: the initial journey of Abram into Canaan, the miraculous victory of Gideon, and the covenant instructions given to Israel. It serves as a fixed point of reference in the geography of the promised land, tying together crucial aspects of patriarchal, military, and covenantal history.
TRV