### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mirʻeh**, represented by `{{H4829}}`, is a term for **pasture**. It appears **13 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root `{{H7462}}` which means "to feed," `{{H4829}}` can signify both the physical place of feeding and the act itself. It is also used to describe the haunt or feeding place of wild animals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4829}}` is used in several key contexts. It most often refers to a literal place of sustenance for livestock, as when the sons of Simeon went "to seek **pasture** for their flocks" [[1 Chronicles 4:39]] or when Joseph's family explained they came to Egypt because there was "no **pasture**" in Canaan [[Genesis 47:4]]. The quality of this provision is also highlighted, with descriptions of "fat **pasture** and good" [[1 Chronicles 4:40]]. Beyond domestic animals, it also denotes the domain of wild beasts, such as the "feedingplace of the young lions" [[Nahum 2:11]]. Figuratively, a lack of **pasture** signifies distress and judgment, as when the princes of Zion are "like harts that find no **pasture**" [[Lamentations 1:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of shepherding and sustenance:
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (to tend a flock; i.e. pasture it): This is the primitive root from which `{{H4829}}` is derived. It encompasses the action of shepherding and feeding, and God promises to "feed" His people in a good pasture [[Ezekiel 34:14]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (a collective name for a flock): This word for "flock" or "sheep" frequently appears in contexts describing the need for pasture, such as the search for pasture for their **flocks** [[Genesis 47:4]].
* `{{H5739}}` **ʻêder** (drove, flock, herd): This term for a herd or flock is used to describe animals in distress when they lack a pasture, as in Joel where the **herds** of cattle are perplexed because they have no pasture [[Joel 1:18]].
* `{{H4583}}` **mâʻôwn** (an abode... or animals (their lair)): This term for a dwelling or den is used in parallel with `{{H4829}}` to describe the "**dwelling** of the lions, and the feedingplace of the young lions" [[Nahum 2:11]], reinforcing the idea of a natural habitat.
* `{{H3491}}` **yâthûwr** (range): This word appears alongside `{{H4829}}` to describe the scope of a wild animal's territory, as in "The **range** of the mountains is his pasture" [[Job 39:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4829}}` is tied to themes of divine care, judgment, and human responsibility.
* **Divine Provision and Restoration:** The concept of pasture is used to illustrate God's promise to care for and restore His people. In Ezekiel, God declares He will lead His flock to a "good **pasture**" and a "fat **pasture**" on the mountains of Israel [[Ezekiel 34:14]], signifying a return to security and abundance.
* **A Sign of Judgment:** Conversely, the absence of pasture is depicted as a direct consequence of judgment and desolation. The groaning of beasts because "they have no **pasture**" [[Joel 1:18]] and the depiction of Zion's weakened leaders as harts that "find no **pasture**" [[Lamentations 1:6]] symbolize a land under distress.
* **Accountability for Resources:** The word is also used to highlight human failure and selfishness. The Lord rebukes those who, after enjoying the "good **pasture**," then "tread down" and "foul" the remainder, depriving others of sustenance [[Ezekiel 34:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4829}}` is much more than a simple geographical term. It is a cornerstone concept for understanding sustenance, security, and divine relationship in the scriptures. It illustrates how a single word can carry layers of meaning, from a literal field for flocks [[Genesis 47:4]] and a haunt for wild lions [[Nahum 2:11]], to a powerful theological symbol of God's faithful provision and the dire consequences of His judgment [[Ezekiel 34:14]].
TRV