### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼêlôwn**, represented by `{{H436}}`, refers to **an oak or other strong tree**, and is often translated as **plain**. It appears 9 times in 9 unique verses. While its base definition suggests a tree, its biblical usage almost always points to a specific, named landmark, often a grove of large trees that served as a significant geographical reference point.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H436}}` consistently functions as a marker for important locations. It is frequently associated with Abram, who dwelt in the **plain** of Mamre ([[Genesis 13:18]], [[Genesis 14:13]]) and where the Lord appeared to him [[Genesis 18:1]]. He also passed through the **plain** of Moreh upon entering the land [[Genesis 12:6]]. Later, the **plains** of Moreh are cited as a landmark for the Israelites [[Deuteronomy 11:30]]. The term also identifies the spot where Abimelech was made king, "by the **plain** of the pillar that was in Shechem" [[Judges 9:6]], and the location where Samuel foretold a sign to Saul at the "**plain** of Tabor" [[1 Samuel 10:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of land and geography:
* `{{H6160}}` **ʻărâbâh** (champaign, desert, plain): This word often describes a wider, more desolate area like a desert or the sterile Jordan valley [[Ezekiel 47:8]]. In [[Deuteronomy 11:30]], it is used as "champaign" to describe the general region where the more specific "plains of Moreh" `{{H436}}` are located.
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (country, earth, land): This is a much broader term for a territory or the entire earth. Its usage in verses like [[Genesis 12:6]] and [[Deuteronomy 11:30]] shows that an **ʼêlôwn** or plain is a specific place *within* a larger **land**. While `{{H436}}` points to a landmark, `{{H776}}` can refer to the whole **earth** created by God [[Genesis 1:1]] or the **land** promised to His people [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H436}}` comes from the events that occur at these locations.
* **Sites of Divine Revelation:** The "plains of Mamre" are not merely Abram's dwelling place, but the location where the LORD appeared to him [[Genesis 18:1]]. Abram also built an altar there [[Genesis 13:18]], consecrating the site as a place of worship and divine encounter.
* **Landmarks of Covenant:** The "plain of Moreh" is one of the first locations mentioned as Abram journeys through the land promised by God [[Genesis 12:6]]. It later serves as a key geographical marker for the Israelites as they prepare to enter that same land [[Deuteronomy 11:30]], tying it to the fulfillment of God's promise.
* **Markers of Historical Turning Points:** The word designates locations of significant national events, such as the coronation of Abimelech at the "plain of the pillar" [[Judges 9:6]] and a prophetic sign for Israel's first king at the "plain of Tabor" [[1 Samuel 10:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H436}}` is more than just a word for an oak tree or a plain. It functions as a proper noun in practice, designating specific, memorable locations in Israel's history. These places, marked by strong trees, became the backdrop for divine appearances, covenant promises, and pivotal moments in the lives of the patriarchs and the nation. The use of **ʼêlôwn** demonstrates how a feature of the natural landscape can become imbued with deep historical and theological significance.
TRV