### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çôk**, represented by `{{H5520}}`, describes a **hut, lair, or covert**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. Derived from a root suggesting entwined boughs, its meaning ranges from a temporary shelter or pavilion to the den of a predatory animal, highlighting its dual use for both refuge and ambush.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H5520}}` is used to illustrate two contrasting ideas: divine refuge and predatory danger. It is described as God's **pavilion** where He hides the faithful in times of trouble [[Psalms 27:5]]. It is also used for His **tabernacle** in Salem, establishing it as His dwelling place [[Psalms 76:2]]. Conversely, the word depicts a lion's **den** or **covert**, a place of secret ambush from which the wicked prey on the poor [[Psalms 10:9]] or from which a lion emerges, leaving desolation in its wake [[Jeremiah 25:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concepts of shelter and concealment associated with `{{H5520}}`:
* `{{H168}}` **ʼôhel** (a tent): Often translated as tabernacle, this word signifies a conspicuous dwelling or covering. It is used alongside `{{H5520}}` to emphasize the security of God's dwelling place [[Psalms 27:5]].
* `{{H4585}}` **mᵉʻôwnâh** (den, habitation, dwelling place): This term for an abode can apply to God, men, or animals. It appears with `{{H5520}}` to describe God's dwelling place in Zion [[Psalms 76:2]].
* `{{H5643}}` **çêther** (a cover, hiding place, secret place): This word denotes concealment and protection. It is paired with `{{H5520}}` to form the idea of "the secret of his tabernacle," a place of divine hiding [[Psalms 27:5]].
* `{{H693}}` **ʼârab** (to lurk): This verb describes the action of lying in wait. It is used to characterize the wicked who use their "den" `{{H5520}}` as a place from which to ambush the poor [[Psalms 10:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5520}}` lies in its contrasting imagery of refuge and danger.
* **A Place of Divine Hiding:** The word is used for God's **pavilion**, a place of protection during times of trouble [[Psalms 27:5]]. It is His **tabernacle** in Salem, signifying His stable and secure presence with His people in Zion [[Psalms 76:2]]. In this context, it is a place where God hides and exalts the righteous upon a rock.
* **A Symbol of Predatory Evil:** As a **den** or **covert**, `{{H5520}}` represents the hidden place from which the wicked operate. They lie in wait like a lion to catch the poor [[Psalms 10:9]], illustrating malicious intent.
* **An Instrument of Judgment:** The lion's forsaken **covert** in Jeremiah connects the imagery of a predator to divine judgment. The land is made desolate by the fierceness of the oppressor and God's own fierce anger [[Jeremiah 25:38]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5520}}` is a versatile term that uses the physical image of a hut or lair to convey profound spiritual realities. While it appears only four times, it powerfully contrasts the secure **pavilion** of God's presence with the dangerous **den** of a predator. It illustrates that a place of hiding can be either a source of divine protection for the righteous or a covert for the wicked's schemes and a symbol of devastating judgment.
TRV