### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼEltᵉqêʼ**, represented by `{{H514}}`, identifies a place in Palestine known as **Eltekeh** or Elteke. Though its derivation is uncertain, its identity as a specific location is clear. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the context of tribal land allocation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H514}}` is first mentioned as one of the cities included in the territory assigned to the tribe of Dan [[Joshua 19:44]]. Shortly after, it is named again as a city given from that same tribe to the Levites. The record specifies the transfer of "Eltekeh with her suburbs," designating it as a Levitical city [[Joshua 21:23]]. Both of its occurrences firmly place it within the land distributions recorded in the book of Joshua.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Eltekeh:
* `{{H1835}}` **Dân** (judge; Dan, one of the sons of Jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory): This is the tribe out of which Eltekeh was granted to the Levites [[Joshua 21:23]].
* `{{H1405}}` **Gibbᵉthôwn** (a hilly spot; Gibbethon, a place in Palestine): This city is listed immediately alongside Eltekeh in both biblical references, indicating a close geographical proximity or administrative connection [[Joshua 19:44]].
* `{{H1191}}` **Baʻălâth** (mistressship; Baalath, a place in Palestine): This location is also included in the list of cities belonging to the tribe of Dan, mentioned in the same verse as Eltekeh's initial assignment [[Joshua 19:44]].
* `{{H4054}}` **migrâsh** (a suburb... the area around a building): This term is essential for understanding Eltekeh's status as a Levitical city, as it was given "with her **suburbs**" to provide for the priestly tribe [[Joshua 21:23]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H514}}` is tied to its role in the fulfillment of God's covenant with Israel.
* **Tribal Inheritance:** The first mention of Eltekeh helps define the specific boundaries of the land promised and allotted to the **tribe** `{{H4294}}` of Dan, marking a concrete piece of the inheritance [[Joshua 19:44]].
* **Levitical Provision:** Its designation as a Levitical city demonstrates the provision made for the priests and Levites, who were not given a tribal territory but were assigned cities and **suburbs** `{{H4054}}` among the other tribes [[Joshua 21:23]].
* **Geographic Marker:** Paired consistently with Gibbethon, Eltekeh serves as a precise geographic point of reference within the land of Canaan during the period of settlement.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H514}}` is a specific place name whose importance lies in its function within the biblical record of the Israelite settlement. While appearing only twice, its role is twofold: it helps delineate the inheritance of the tribe of Dan and serves as an example of a city set apart for the Levites. The name Eltekeh, therefore, represents the precise and orderly fulfillment of God's distribution of the promised land.
TRV