### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mêydᵉbâʼ**, represented by `{{H4311}}`, is a proper name for **Medeba**, a place in Palestine. The name's components suggest a meaning of "water of quiet". It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, consistently referring to this specific geographical location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4311}}` is mentioned in contexts of territory, conflict, and judgment. As a geographical marker, it is used to define the boundaries of a region, specifically as "all the plain of **Medeba** unto Dibon" [[Joshua 13:9]] and "all the plain by **Medeba**" [[Joshua 13:16]]. The city was also a site of military activity, where the king of Maachah and his people pitched their camp before going to battle against the children of Ammon [[1 Chronicles 19:7]]. It is also listed among places laid waste [[Numbers 21:30]] and is a subject of prophetic judgment, with Moab set to "howl" over **Medeba** [[Isaiah 15:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the location and context of Medeba:
* `{{H1769}}` **Dîybôwn** (Dibon): This nearby city is frequently mentioned in the same context as Medeba, both in descriptions of territory [[Joshua 13:9]] and in lists of cities facing destruction or judgment ([[Numbers 21:30]], [[Isaiah 15:2]]). The name means "pining".
* `{{H6177}}` **ʻĂrôwʻêr** (Aroer): A city whose name means "nudity of situation," Aroer is used as a starting point for a boundary that includes the plain of Medeba ([[Joshua 13:9]], [[Joshua 13:16]]).
* `{{H4334}}` **mîyshôwr** (plain): This term, meaning "a level, i.e. a plain," is directly connected to Medeba. The phrase "the plain of Medeba" is used to describe the extent of a territory given as an inheritance ([[Joshua 13:9]], [[Joshua 13:16]]).
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): Meaning "a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch)," this word is used in proximity to Medeba to describe the surrounding populated areas involved in territorial allotments and battles ([[Joshua 13:9]], [[1 Chronicles 19:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4311}}` is rooted in its role as a key geographical and historical site in the Old Testament narrative.
* **Territorial Landmark:** Medeba, particularly "the plain of Medeba," serves as a crucial landmark for defining tribal coasts and inheritance in the land ([[Joshua 13:9]], [[Joshua 13:16]]).
* **Site of Conflict:** The city was a strategic location for military campaigns. It was where foreign armies gathered before engaging in battle with the children of Ammon [[1 Chronicles 19:7]].
* **Subject of Prophetic Judgment:** Medeba is explicitly named in prophecies of doom against Moab. It is a place destined for mourning and desolation, reflecting the consequences of judgment upon the nation ([[Isaiah 15:2]], [[Numbers 21:30]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4311}}` **Mêydᵉbâʼ** is more than just a name on a map. While it literally means "water of quiet," its biblical context is one of turbulence and significance. It functions as a key geographical reference point for tribal boundaries and is a notable stage for pivotal moments of war and prophetic judgment in the history of Israel and its neighboring nations.
TRV