### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉkûwrâh**, represented by `{{H4351}}`, refers to an **origin, birth, or habitation**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, always pointing to a source or place of nativity, often to establish a foundational identity or a point of judgment. Its meaning is derived from the idea of a mine, as if digging to find a source.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Ezekiel, `{{H4351}}` is used to define the origins of both cities and nations. The Lord{H136} GOD{H3069} confronts Jerusalem{H3389}, stating, "Thy **birth** and thy nativity is of the land of Canaan" [[Ezekiel 16:3]], connecting the city's identity to a non-Israelite source. The word is also used as a location for divine judgment, where God declares, "I will judge thee in the place where thou wast created, in the land of thy **nativity**" [[Ezekiel 21:30]]. Finally, it describes the place to which the captives of Egypt{H4714} will return, their "land of their **habitation**," where they will exist as a "base kingdom" [[Ezekiel 29:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of origin and place:
* `{{H4138}}` **môwledeth** (nativity, kindred): This word is used in parallel with `{{H4351}}` to emphasize lineage and place of birth. In [[Ezekiel 16:3]], it is paired with **birth** to describe Jerusalem's Canaanite origins.
* `{{H776}}` **'erets** (land, country): This term provides the physical location for the origin defined by `{{H4351}}`. Each use of **mᵉkûwrâh** is tied to a specific **land**, such as the "land of Canaan" [[Ezekiel 16:3]] or the "land of Pathros" [[Ezekiel 29:14]].
* `{{H1254}}` **bârâʼ** (to create): This root is contextually linked to `{{H4351}}` to show that a place of origin is also a place of creation. Judgment is delivered "in the place where thou wast **created**, in the land of thy nativity" [[Ezekiel 21:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4351}}` is significant, particularly within prophetic judgment.
* **Humbling Origins:** The word is used to strip away pride by reminding a people of their humble or profane beginnings. Jerusalem is reminded that her "father was an Amorite, and thy mother an Hittite" [[Ezekiel 16:3]], establishing a foundation of unworthiness.
* **Place of Accountability:** A people's place of origin becomes the specific site of divine judgment. This connects identity and geography with moral and spiritual reckoning before God [[Ezekiel 21:30]].
* **Divine Sovereignty over Nations:** God's declaration of a nation's origin or habitation is an exercise of His authority. He defines Egypt's future as a "base kingdom" within its own "land of their habitation" [[Ezekiel 29:14]], showing His control over the destinies of peoples.
### Summary
In summary, **mᵉkûwrâh** `{{H4351}}` is a potent term that transcends a simple definition of birthplace. It is used prophetically to establish a people's foundational identity, often as a means of humbling them before God. By linking origin to judgment and divine sovereignty, the word underscores the biblical principle that where a people comes from is intrinsically tied to their accountability and standing before their Creator.
TRV