### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çôwph**, represented by `{{H5490}}`, denotes **a termination; conclusion, end, hinder participle**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe a final point, whether it is the conclusion of a matter, the boundary of a physical space, or the ultimate end of a sequence or life itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H5490}}` is applied in several distinct ways. It marks a geographical endpoint, as when the Israelites were told they would find their enemies "at the **end** of the brook" [[2 Chronicles 20:16]]. It is also used in a physical, directional sense to describe the **hinder part** of the northern army being driven toward the sea [[Joel 2:20]]. In the book of Ecclesiastes, the term takes on a more philosophical weight, describing the **end** of all men as a reason to contemplate mortality [[Ecclesiastes 7:2]]. It also signifies the temporal boundary of God's work, which man cannot fully comprehend from "the beginning to the **end**" [[Ecclesiastes 3:11]]. Finally, it serves as a powerful summary device, presenting the **conclusion** of the whole matter of life [[Ecclesiastes 12:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the concept of finality and boundaries:
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (beginning): As the direct counterpart to "end," this word signifies a start or first point. It is used in direct opposition to `{{H5490}}` to contrast the full scope of God's work, which is beyond human discovery from the **beginning** to the **end** [[Ecclesiastes 3:11]].
* `{{H314}}` **ʼachărôwn** (hinder, last): This term reinforces the idea of being at the rear or latter part of something. It appears alongside `{{H5490}}` in the description of the northern army's defeat, with its hinder part being driven toward the **utmost** sea [[Joel 2:20]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (matter, thing, word): This word often describes the subject that is being brought to a close. Its most significant connection is in the declaration of the **conclusion** `{{H5490}}` of the "whole **matter**" [[Ecclesiastes 12:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5490}}` is centered on the concepts of purpose, limitation, and final judgment.
* **The Ultimate Purpose:** The word is used to deliver the final verdict on human existence. The "conclusion of the whole matter" is to **fear** `{{H3372}}` God and **keep** `{{H8104}}` His **commandments** `{{H4687}}`, defining this as the essential duty of man [[Ecclesiastes 12:13]].
* **Contemplation of Mortality:** By marking death as "the **end** of all men," the word compels the **living** `{{H2416}}` to consider their own finality and lay this truth to **heart** `{{H3820}}`, suggesting wisdom is found in acknowledging life's limits [[Ecclesiastes 7:2]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The use of `{{H5490}}` highlights the boundary of human understanding. Man cannot **find out** `{{H4672}}` the work of God from beginning to **end**, affirming that God's plan is vast and eternal, beyond mortal grasp [[Ecclesiastes 3:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5490}}` is a crucial term that defines finality in multiple contexts. It moves from a literal marker of a geographical **end** [[2 Chronicles 20:16]] or a physical **hinder part** [[Joel 2:20]] to a profound theological concept. It encapsulates the **end** of mortal life [[Ecclesiastes 7:2]], the limits of human comprehension of God's eternal works [[Ecclesiastes 3:11]], and the ultimate **conclusion** and purpose for humanity [[Ecclesiastes 12:13]]. This word consistently points toward a final boundary or summary, reminding readers of both physical limitations and ultimate spiritual truths.
TRV