### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nôwph**, represented by `{{H5131}}`, describes an **elevation** or **situation**. This term is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire biblical text. Its sole usage provides a powerful and specific description of a place of great theological importance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5131}}` is in [[Psalms 48:2]], where the psalmist describes Mount Zion. The verse reads, "Beautiful for **situation**, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion." In this context, **nôwph** conveys more than just a physical location; it portrays Mount Zion's placement as being perfectly and beautifully elevated, making it a landmark of divine significance and a source of delight for all the earth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5131}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{H3303}}` **yâpheh** (beautiful): This word, which modifies **nôwph**, establishes that the "situation" of Zion is aesthetically perfect. It is used elsewhere to describe things that are fair, comely, and pleasant, such as a beautiful person [[Song of Solomon 6:1]] or even God's creation [[Ecclesiastes 3:11]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This specifies that the elevated situation belongs to a **mountain**. Mount Zion is not just any hill, but is often depicted as a place of divine stability and exaltation, as it "cannot be removed, but abideth for ever" [[Psalms 125:1]].
* `{{H6726}}` **Tsîyôwn** (Zion): This identifies the specific subject, **Zion**, the mountain of Jerusalem. Zion is consistently portrayed as the chosen dwelling place of God, the city of the great King, and a place of ultimate security and foundation [[Isaiah 28:16]].
* `{{H4885}}` **mâsôws** (joy, mirth, rejoice): This connects the physical "situation" of Zion to its spiritual purpose. Its beautiful elevation is the cause of it being "the **joy** of the whole earth," a theme echoed in prophecies about Jerusalem becoming a joy and rejoicing [[Isaiah 65:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5131}}` is tied entirely to its singular, powerful use in describing Zion.
* **Divine Placement:** The use of **nôwph** highlights that Zion's location is not accidental but divinely appointed. Its "beautiful for situation" status reflects its role as the city of the "great King" [[Psalms 48:2]].
* **Spiritual Prominence:** The concept of "elevation" signifies spiritual superiority and prominence. Mount Zion is presented as the elevated center of God's presence and kingdom on earth, a focal point for all nations.
* **Source of Security and Joy:** The "situation" of Zion is directly linked to it being "the joy of the whole earth" [[Psalms 48:2]]. Its physical and spiritual elevation provides a sense of security, stability, and delight for the faithful.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H5131}}` is one of the rarest words in the Old Testament, its single use in [[Psalms 48:2]] is deeply significant. It defines Mount Zion's "situation" as one of perfect, God-given elevation and beauty. This one word encapsulates the physical and spiritual prominence of Zion, establishing it as the chosen city of God, a source of joy and security for the entire earth.
TRV