### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉtsad**, represented by `{{H4679}}`, refers to a **fort**, **castle**, or **strong hold**. It appears 11 times in 11 unique verses. The term describes a secure, defensible location, often a natural fastness used as a covert for ambush or a fortified structure for protection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4679}}` is frequently associated with places of refuge and military defense. It is prominent in the account of David fleeing from Saul, where he "abode in the wilderness in **strong holds**" [[1 Samuel 23:14]] and later dwelt in **strong holds** at Engedi [[1 Samuel 23:29]]. These locations served as critical bases for David and his followers [[1 Chronicles 12:16]]. The word also appears in prophetic judgments, signifying the fall of human fortifications, as when the **strong holds** of Moab are surprised [[Jeremiah 48:41]] or when the mighty men of Babylon remain in their **holds** as their might fails [[Jeremiah 51:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the physical and strategic context of a **mᵉtsad**:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This word often specifies the location of a stronghold, highlighting its elevated and defensible nature. David remained in a **mountain** in the wilderness, in his strong holds [[1 Samuel 23:14]].
* `{{H4631}}` **mᵉʻârâh** (a cavern): Often found alongside `{{H4679}}`, a **cave** serves as another form of natural fortification. The Israelites made dens, **caves**, and strong holds in the mountains to hide from Midian [[Judges 6:2]].
* `{{H4869}}` **misgâb** (a cliff; a refuge): This term is used synonymously for a high fort or place of defense. In a promise to the righteous, their **place of defence** (`{{H4869}}`) is described as the **munitions** (`{{H4679}}`) of rocks [[Isaiah 33:16]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4679}}` lies in its portrayal of security and refuge:
* **Physical Strongholds:** The word's primary meaning is a literal, tangible fortress. For David, these holds were essential for survival while he was an outlaw [[1 Samuel 23:14]]. It could also refer to a formal military structure, as when David dwelt in the **castle** that became the city of David [[1 Chronicles 11:7]].
* **The Limits of Human Defense:** In prophetic contexts, these strongholds symbolize the inadequacy of human strength when facing divine judgment. Hiding in **forts** provides no escape from the pestilence sent by God [[Ezekiel 33:27]], and the **strong holds** of powerful nations like Moab are captured [[Jeremiah 48:41]].
* **Dependence on Divine Protection:** While physical, the effectiveness of a stronghold is often linked to God's will. The narrative explicitly states that while David was in the strong holds, it was God who prevented Saul from capturing him [[1 Samuel 23:14]]. The righteous are promised security in the **munitions** of rocks, where God himself provides sustenance [[Isaiah 33:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4679}}` is a specific term for a physical place of fortification. It is a key element in historical accounts of warfare and refuge, particularly in the life of David. Theologically, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the difference between man-made security and true safety, illustrating that while a **fort** or **castle** can offer temporary protection, ultimate deliverance and provision come only from God.
TRV