### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nepheth**, represented by `{{H5316}}`, is defined as a **height** or **country**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular usage points to a specific application related to territory and geography.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5316}}` is in the context of the land allotment for the tribe of Manasseh. In [[Joshua 17:11]], after listing several prominent cities and their towns that fell within Manasseh's territory—including Bethshean, Ibleam, Dor, and Megiddo—the text summarizes these holdings as "three **countries**". This indicates that `{{H5316}}` is used not to describe a single, vast nation, but rather a collection of distinct regions or districts.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H5316}}` is used:
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (daughter; town, village): This word appears repeatedly in [[Joshua 17:11]] as "towns." It describes the smaller settlements attached to the major cities, which together constitute the larger "countries" `{{H5316}}`. The term is also used figuratively, as in the "daughter of Zion" [[Zechariah 9:9]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell; to inhabit): Also found in [[Joshua 17:11]], this word refers to the "inhabitants" of the cities that make up the countries. A country or region is defined by the people who **dwell** there, a concept seen in the call for brethren to **dwell** together in unity [[Psalms 133:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5316}}` is rooted in the biblical theme of land and inheritance.
* **Territorial Inheritance:** The word's use in [[Joshua 17:11]] is crucial for defining the specific portion of the Promised Land given to the tribe of Manasseh. It underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant promise of land.
* **Geographical Delineation:** By summarizing a list of cities and towns as "three **countries**," the text provides a clear and organized record of Manasseh's holdings. It treats these areas as distinct, recognized regions.
* **Administrative Structure:** The term suggests a level of organization, grouping multiple cities and their dependent towns into a larger, coherent unit. This highlights the structured settlement of the Israelite tribes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5316}}` is a specific term for a **country** or region. Although it appears only once, its context in [[Joshua 17:11]] is highly significant. It functions as a geographical designator that defines a portion of Manasseh's tribal inheritance, grouping a series of cities and their inhabitants into distinct territories and underscoring the structured nature of the Israelite land allotment.
TRV