### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼÂmôwn**, represented by `{{H528}}`, is a term of Egyptian derivation specifically associated with the Egyptian deity Amon. It is translated as **multitude** or **populous** and appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, always used as an adjunct to the city of No.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H528}}` consistently refers to the great Egyptian city of No, also known as Thebes. In Jeremiah, God declares His intent to "punish the **multitude** of No" [[Jeremiah 46:25]], targeting the city's vast population along with Pharaoh `{{H6547}}` and the gods of Egypt `{{H4714}}`. The prophet Nahum uses the term rhetorically, asking if Nineveh is better than "**populous** No" [[Nahum 3:8]], a city that was strategically situated among rivers `{{H2975}}` and fortified by the sea `{{H3220}}` as its rampart `{{H2426}}` and wall `{{H2346}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the power and judgment associated with `{{H528}}`:
* `{{H4996}}` **Nôʼ** (No): This is the proper name for Thebes, the capital of Upper Egypt. `{{H528}}` is always used to describe this specific city, as seen in both of its occurrences ([[Jeremiah 46:25]], [[Nahum 3:8]]).
* `{{H527}}` **ʼâmôwn** (multitude): A variation word meaning "a throng of people." It appears alongside `{{H528}}` in both verses, reinforcing the idea of a great population that is the subject of divine judgment [[Jeremiah 46:25]].
* `{{H2426}}` **chêyl** (rampart, army): Describing the defenses of populous No, this word signifies an intrenchment or bulwark. The city's "rampart was the sea" [[Nahum 3:8]], highlighting its perceived strength.
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt): As a term of Egyptian origin, `{{H528}}` is intrinsically linked to this nation. Judgment is pronounced against the multitude of No and **Egypt** as a whole [[Jeremiah 46:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H528}}` is tied to God's sovereignty over foreign powers and their deities.
* **Judgment on Idolatry:** The term itself is a name for an Egyptian deity, Amon. God's declaration to "punish the multitude of No...with their gods" [[Jeremiah 46:25]] is a direct challenge to the false worship and trust `{{H982}}` placed in Egyptian idols and leaders.
* **Futility of Human Strength:** The depiction of "**populous** No" [[Nahum 3:8]] with its formidable natural defenses serves as a powerful example. Despite its greatness and population, the city was not beyond the reach of God's judgment, demonstrating that no amount of human might can stand against Him.
* **Sovereignty of God:** The pronouncements against this great city are made by "The LORD{H3068} of hosts{H6635}, the God{H430} of Israel{H3478}" [[Jeremiah 46:25]]. This use of `{{H528}}` underscores that the God of Israel holds authority over all nations, their kings, and their gods.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H528}}` is a specific and potent term used exclusively to describe the populous nature of the Egyptian city of No, while also alluding to its chief deity, Amon. Occurring only in prophetic oracles of judgment, it serves to highlight the futility of trusting in human numbers, fortifications, or foreign gods. The use of **ʼÂmôwn** demonstrates that the God of Israel's power is supreme, extending even to the heart of the most powerful empires on earth.
TRV