### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nachălîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H5160}}`, refers to a specific location meaning **valley of God**. Defined as "Nachaliel, a place in the Desert," this name appears **2 times** within a single unique verse in the biblical record, marking a point in the journey of the Israelites.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5160}}` is mentioned exclusively as a waypoint during the Israelites' travels through the wilderness. The scripture records their path "from Mattanah to **Nahaliel**: and from **Nahaliel** to Bamoth" [[Numbers 21:19]]. This places it precisely on the map of their journey, serving as a geographical marker between two other named locations as they progressed toward the land of Moab.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5160}}` is defined by its relationship to the locations that precede and follow it in the Israelites' journey:
* `{{H4980}}` **Mattânâh**: This is the location from which the Israelites traveled to reach Nahaliel [[Numbers 21:19]]. It is identified as "Mattanah, a place in the Desert" and was the destination after their time in the wilderness [[Numbers 21:18]].
* `{{H1120}}` **Bâmôwth**: This location, meaning "heights," was the next stop after Nahaliel [[Numbers 21:19]]. It is described as being in the country of Moab and is also identified as "Bamoth-baal" [[Joshua 13:17]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5160}}` is primarily found in its name and its place within the larger narrative of the Israelite journey.
* **Divine Association:** The name itself, **valley of God**, suggests a place of divine significance or a valley named in honor of God's presence or provision during their travels.
* **Narrative Progression:** It marks a key transition point. The Israelites move from Mattanah, through the "valley of God," and then ascend to Bamoth, which means "heights" [[Numbers 21:19]]. This journey from a valley to a high place near Moab represents physical and geographical progress toward their destination.
* **A Stop on the Way:** As a location mentioned in the detailed travelogue, Nahaliel serves as a testament to the specific and guided nature of the Israelites' path out of the desert.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5160}}` is more than just an archaic place name. It is a specific, named location, the "valley of God," that functions as a crucial waypoint in the biblical account of Israel's journey. Although mentioned only briefly, its name and its position between Mattanah and Bamoth give it a distinct role in the narrative, highlighting a specific stage of the Israelites' passage through the desert.
TRV