### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mᵉʻârâh**, represented by `{{H4632}}`, identifies a specific location in Palestine. Its base definition is **cave; Mearah**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, functioning as a proper noun to designate a geographical point.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of `{{H4632}}` occurs in the book of Joshua, as part of a description of the land yet to be conquered by the Israelites. The verse specifies the territory as including "all the land of the Canaanites, and **Mearah** that is beside the Sidonians, unto Aphek, to the borders of the Amorites" [[Joshua 13:4]]. In this context, **Mᵉʻârâh** serves as a landmark defining a portion of the Promised Land associated with Canaanite peoples.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole appearance help establish its geographical and political context:
* `{{H6722}}` **Tsîydônîy** (a Tsidonian or inhabitant of Tsidon): **Mᵉʻârâh** is located "beside the Sidonians" [[Joshua 13:4]]. The Sidonians are identified as one of the groups God would help drive out from before the children of Israel [[Joshua 13:6]].
* `{{H3669}}` **Kᵉnaʻanîy** (a Kenaanite or inhabitant of Kenaan): The territory is explicitly called "the land of the Canaanites" [[Joshua 13:4]]. The Canaanites were one of the primary peoples God promised to drive out of the land for Israel [[Joshua 3:10]].
* `{{H663}}` **ʼĂphêq** (fortress; Aphek): This fortress is the destination point of the boundary line that includes **Mᵉʻârâh** [[Joshua 13:4]]. Aphek is elsewhere noted as a strategic city where armies gathered for battle [[1 Samuel 4:1]].
* `{{H567}}` **ʼĔmôrîy** (an Emorite, one of the Canaanitish tribes): The boundary described extends "to the borders of the Amorites" [[Joshua 13:4]], another of the seven nations greater and mightier than Israel that God would cast out [[Deuteronomy 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical significance of `{{H4632}}` is tied to its role in the Israelite conquest.
* **Boundary Marker:** **Mᵉʻârâh** is used to delineate the boundaries of unconquered territory within the land promised to Israel. It helps map out the remaining task of the conquest as laid out by God [[Joshua 13:4]].
* **Association with Canaanite Territory:** Its location "beside the Sidonians" and within "the land of the Canaanites" highlights its position within gentile-controlled lands that were part of Israel's inheritance.
* **Strategic Placement:** The description places **Mᵉʻârâh** on a path leading toward Aphek, a fortress, and the border of the Amorites, indicating its presence in a strategically important region [[Joshua 13:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4632}}` is not a common term but a specific place name, **Mᵉʻârâh**. Its importance is derived entirely from its single appearance in scripture, where it functions as a key geographical marker. It helps define the scope of the land promised to Israel but not yet possessed, anchoring the biblical narrative in a real-world map of peoples and places like the Sidonians, Canaanites, and the fortress of Aphek.
TRV