### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Machănêh-Dân**, represented by `{{H4265}}`, identifies a specific location meaning **"camp of Dan."** It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This proper noun is a compound name derived from the words for "camp" and "Dan," marking it as a place of historical significance for the tribe of Dan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H4265}}` is found in the narrative of the Danites' migration. In [[Judges 18:12]], a group from the tribe of Dan "went up" and "pitched" their camp in a particular spot in Judah, near Kirjathjearim. Because of this event, they named the **place** `{{H4725}}` **Mahanehdan**. The verse notes its location as being **behind** `{{H310}}` Kirjathjearim, preserving the memory of their encampment for future generations.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of **Machănêh-Dân** is illuminated by the words used in the verse that describes its naming:
* `{{H2583}}` **chânâh** (to encamp): This root word means to **pitch a tent** or **encamp**. It is used not only for human armies [[Jeremiah 50:29]] but also for divine protection, as when the angel of the LORD **encampeth** around those who fear Him [[Psalms 34:7]].
* `{{H5927}}` **ʻâlâh** (to ascend, go up): This word signifies movement, to **ascend** or **mount**. It describes the Danites' journey [[Judges 18:12]] and is also used for God's action of bringing His people **up** to the promised land [[Exodus 3:8]] and for spiritual renewal, as in mounting **up** with wings like eagles [[Isaiah 40:31]].
* `{{H4725}}` **mâqôwm** (place): This noun refers to a **spot** or **locality**. It can denote a generic area, but is often used for a location designated by God, such as the **place** He will choose for worship [[Deuteronomy 16:16]] or the **place** prepared for His people [[Exodus 23:20]].
* `{{H310}}` **ʼachar** (after, behind): This term indicates sequence or position, meaning **after** or **the hind part**. It physically locates Mahaneh-dan **behind** Kirjathjearim [[Judges 18:12]] and is also used to mark time, as when God makes a covenant **after** those days [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
### Theological Significance
While a minor place name, the story of `{{H4265}}` touches on significant biblical themes through its associated actions.
* **Memorializing History:** The naming of **Mahaneh-dan** demonstrates the practice of marking the land to commemorate a key event. A simple act of encamping (`{{H2583}}`) becomes a permanent part of the region's identity.
* **Purposeful Journeys:** The Danites "went up" (`{{H5927}}`), an action often linked in scripture with divine purpose. This frames their migration not as aimless wandering but as a significant step, culminating in the establishment of a new landmark.
* **Designated Places:** A generic **place** (`{{H4725}}`) is transformed into a site with a specific name and story. This echoes the larger biblical theme of God choosing and sanctifying specific locations for His purposes, making them significant [[Exodus 20:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4265}}` **Machănêh-Dân** is more than just a geographical footnote. Though mentioned only once, it serves as a concise illustration of how actions—ascending, encamping, and naming—imbue the physical landscape with historical and spiritual identity. It is a testament to how a location becomes a memorial, forever defined by the events that transpired there.
TRV