### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻăreh**, represented by `{{H4629}}`, refers to a **nude place** or **meadows**. Derived from the root עָרָה, it denotes a bare or open area. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, making its context highly specific.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4629}}` is in [[Judges 20:33]], where it describes a key tactical location. In this passage, the men of Israel `{{H3478}}` engage in battle, with a contingent of "liers in wait" `{{H693}}` positioned to launch an ambush. The text specifies that these ambushers "came forth out of their places, even out of the **meadows** of Gibeah." Here, `{{H4629}}` identifies the exact terrain used as a staging point for a decisive military maneuver.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H4629}}` is illuminated by several related words from its only verse:
* `{{H693}}` **ʼârab** (to lurk): This word describes the action of the men hiding in the **meadows**. It is a primitive root meaning to lie in ambush, directly linking the place `{{H4629}}` to its military purpose [[Judges 20:33]].
* `{{H1387}}` **Gebaʻ** (Geba): This word identifies the larger location, defined as "a hillock." The **meadows** `{{H4629}}` are a feature of this specific place, indicating the ambush was launched from an open area near the hill of Geba [[Judges 20:33]].
* `{{H1518}}` **gîyach** (to gush forth): This term describes the movement of the ambushers as they "came forth" from the **meadows**. It conveys a sense of bursting out suddenly, highlighting the surprise nature of the attack launched from this open ground [[Judges 20:33]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4629}}` is not theological in a broad sense, but rather narrative and strategic. Its importance is derived entirely from its function within the story.
* **Strategic Terrain:** The word's use underscores the importance of geography in the biblical account of warfare. The **meadows** were not just a backdrop but a critical element in Israel's battle plan.
* **Narrative Detail:** The choice of such a specific and rare term emphasizes a precise detail in the military engagement, grounding the event in a tangible, named landscape feature.
* **Concealment Point:** In the context of [[Judges 20:33]], the "nude place" or **meadows** serve as the point from which the "liers in wait" `{{H693}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}` emerge, making it central to the successful execution of the ambush.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4629}}` is a highly specialized term for a **meadows** or open area. Its single occurrence in scripture locks its meaning to the specific events of [[Judges 20:33]]. While it does not carry wide theological weight on its own, its use provides a vivid detail that highlights the strategic use of landscape in biblical narratives and the precise nature of the historical account.
TRV