### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **matstsâb**, represented by `{{H4673}}`, denotes a **fixed spot**. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. The term's meaning ranges from a literal, physical location, such as "the place where...stood," to a figurative role like an office or a military post, often translated as **garrison** or **station**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4673}}` is frequently used in a military context. It repeatedly describes a Philistine **garrison**, or military post, which becomes a focal point of conflict with Israel. For instance, Jonathan and his armourbearer resolve to go over to the Philistine **garrison** ([[1 Samuel 14:1]], [[1 Samuel 14:6]]), and another **garrison** is established in Bethlehem [[2 Samuel 23:14]]. The word also marks a specific, historical location, as in the book of Joshua, where it pinpoints the "place where the priests' feet stood" in the middle of the Jordan River ([[Joshua 4:3]], [[Joshua 4:9]]). In a figurative sense, it can denote a position of authority, as when Isaiah speaks of a person being driven from their **station** [[Isaiah 22:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{H4673}}` is found:
* `{{H4569}}` **maʻăbâr** (a crossing-place... pass; passage): This term is often used alongside **matstsâb** to define the strategic location of a military post. For example, a Philistine **garrison** went out to the **passage** of Michmash, highlighting its role in controlling a key transit point [[1 Samuel 13:23]].
* `{{H4686}}` **mâtsûwd** (a net... a fastness; castle, defense, fort(-ress), (strong) hold): This word describes a fortified place of defense. It appears in an account where David was in a **hold** while the Philistine **garrison** was in Bethlehem, contrasting the two opposing strongholds [[2 Samuel 23:14]].
* `{{H7704}}` **sâdeh** (a field... country, ground, land): This word for an open **field** or country provides the broader setting for a **garrison**. In one instance, trembling spreads from the host in the **field** to the **garrison** itself, showing the post's integration within the surrounding landscape [[1 Samuel 14:15]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H4673}}` lies in its function as a specific, tangible point where human action and divine power intersect.
* **Site of Faith-Driven Action:** A **garrison** is not just a military target but a place where faith is tested and proven. Jonathan's decision to attack the Philistine **garrison** is prefaced by his trust that "the LORD will work for us," turning the post into a stage for divine deliverance [[1 Samuel 14:6]].
* **Marking Divine History:** The word is used to establish a permanent memorial of God's miraculous intervention. The "place where the priests' feet stood" in the Jordan became a fixed point in Israel's history, marked by twelve stones to commemorate God's power [[Joshua 4:9]].
* **Symbol of Appointed Authority:** In its figurative sense, a **station** represents an office or position of human authority. However, this standing is not absolute, as God declares He will drive an individual from his **station**, demonstrating that all such posts are ultimately subject to divine judgment [[Isaiah 22:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4673}}` is a precise term for a **fixed spot**, whether a military **garrison**, a memorialized location, or a figurative **station** of authority. It grounds significant biblical events in specific, tangible places. From the site of a miraculous river crossing to the target of a courageous attack, **matstsâb** consistently marks a location where history, faith, and divine purpose converge.
TRV