### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉʻârâh**, represented by `{{H4631}}`, refers to a **cavern, den, or hole**. It appears 39 times across 36 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a root word meaning dark, `{{H4631}}` describes natural cavities used for a wide range of purposes, from shelter and hiding to burial and even as a metaphor for desolation and judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4631}}` is frequently a place of refuge and concealment. David escaped from Saul to the **cave** of Adullam [[1 Samuel 22:1]], and later hid in a **cave** where he had the opportunity to spare Saul's life [[1 Samuel 24:3]]. The Israelites hid in **caves** from the Midianites [[Judges 6:2]] and Philistines [[1 Samuel 13:6]], while Obadiah hid one hundred of the LORD's prophets in a **cave** to protect them from Jezebel [[1 Kings 18:4]]. The word also holds great significance as a place of burial, most notably the **cave** of Machpelah, which Abraham purchased as a family burying place for his wife Sarah and future generations ([[Genesis 23:19]], [[Genesis 50:13]]). Conversely, it can symbolize judgment, as when Jeremiah describes the temple becoming a **den** of robbers [[Jeremiah 7:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and function of a `{{H4631}}` cave:
* `{{H2244}}` **châbâʼ** (to hide): This verb is directly associated with the use of caves for concealment. Five kings **hid** themselves in a cave at Makkedah [[Joshua 10:16]], and Obadiah **hid** the prophets in a cave [[1 Kings 18:13]].
* `{{H6697}}` **tsûwr** (a rock, cliff, refuge): Caves are often found within rocky terrain. In the day of judgment, people will go into the holes of the **rocks** [[Isaiah 2:19]]. The word also figuratively denotes a refuge, a primary function of a cave.
* `{{H4679}}` **mᵉtsad** (a fastness, strong hold): Often used alongside `{{H4631}}`, this term refers to a fortified place of safety. The Israelites made dens, caves, and **strong holds** in the mountains [[Judges 6:2]], and those in the **forts** and caves face judgment together [[Ezekiel 33:27]].
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (mouth, edge, opening): This word is used to describe the entrance to a cave. Joshua commanded his men to roll great stones upon the **mouth** of the cave where the kings were hidden [[Joshua 10:18]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4631}}` is demonstrated through several key biblical themes:
* **A Place of Refuge:** Caves consistently serve as shelters from danger. David's psalms reflect his experience seeking refuge in the LORD while hiding in a **cave** ([[Psalms 57:1]], [[Psalms 142:1]]). Lot also dwelt in a **cave** after fleeing the destruction of Zoar [[Genesis 19:30]].
* **A Place of Divine Encounter:** In a moment of despair, the prophet Elijah lodged in a **cave** at Horeb where the word of the LORD came to him [[1 Kings 19:9]]. This shows that a place of hiding can also become a place of divine revelation.
* **A Site of Heritage and Promise:** The purchase of the **cave** of Machpelah by Abraham was a foundational act, securing a permanent family burial plot in the land of Canaan [[Genesis 23:20]]. Jacob insisted on being buried there with his fathers, reinforcing its importance to Israel's heritage [[Genesis 49:29]].
* **A Symbol of Judgment:** A **cave** can represent the final state of the wicked or a place of fear. Isaiah prophesies that people will hide in **caves** from the terror of the LORD [[Isaiah 2:19]], and Ezekiel declares that those hiding in **caves** will not escape judgment [[Ezekiel 33:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4631}}` is a multifaceted term that represents far more than a simple geographical feature. It serves as a literal place of hiding, refuge, and burial, establishing key narratives for figures like Abraham, David, and Elijah. The word carries a powerful duality, symbolizing both divine protection and deliverance on one hand, and divine judgment and desolation on the other. From a family tomb securing a people's heritage to a lonely shelter for a prophet, the **cave** is a crucial setting in the biblical landscape.
TRV