The Hebrew word Maʻărâth, represented by H4638, is the name for a location in Palestine. Its base definition is waste. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entirety of the Bible, identifying it as a specific place.
The single biblical reference to H4638 occurs in the context of the allotment of land recorded in the book of Joshua. Maʻărâth is listed as one of "six cities with their villages" Joshua 15:59. It is mentioned alongside Bethanoth and Eltekon as part of a defined geographical and administrative group. This mention solidifies its identity as a specific town within the biblical landscape.
Several related words provide context for the description of Maarath:
- H1042 Bêyth ʻĂnôwth (house of replies; Beth-Anoth, a place in Palestine): This city is listed in the same group as Maarath, appearing directly beside it in the biblical text Joshua 15:59.
- H5892 ʻîyr (a city): This term defines the type of settlement Maarath was. The verse identifies it as one of six cities being cataloged Joshua 15:59. The same word is used elsewhere to describe Jerusalem as the holy city Daniel 9:24 and a place God keeps Psalms 127:1.
- H2691 châtsêr (a yard; also a hamlet; village): This word describes the settlements that were dependent on or associated with Maarath. The text specifies that the cities were counted "with their villages" Joshua 15:59. This term is also used to refer to the courts of the Lord's house Psalms 84:10.
The significance of H4638 is primarily geographical and historical within the biblical narrative.
- Inclusion in the Inheritance: The mention of Maarath is important as it includes the location in the official record of the land distribution found in the book of Joshua.
- Administrative Grouping: It is not described in isolation but as part of a cluster of six cities, suggesting it belonged to a recognized district Joshua 15:59.
- Geographical Marker: The name functions as a specific marker, contributing to the detailed and systematic account of the territory.
In summary, H4638 Maʻărâth is a place name whose sole scriptural purpose is to identify a specific city in Palestine. Its single appearance in Joshua 15:59 places it within a list of cities and their associated villages, cementing its role as a geographical reference point in the historical record of the Bible.
TRV