The Hebrew word Çukkôwth, represented by H5523, is the plural form of the word for booths. It appears 18 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. Primarily, H5523 is used as the proper name for specific locations, including a place in Egypt and at least one in Palestine, both of which are significant in the biblical narrative. Its meaning is directly tied to the concept of temporary dwellings or shelters.
In the biblical narrative, Succoth is first established as a place name by Jacob, who journeyed H5265 there and built H1129 a house H1004 for himself and made booths H5521 for his livestock Genesis 33:17. Later, a different Succoth marks the first stop for the children of Israel after they journeyed H5265 from Rameses out of Egypt Exodus 12:37. They then departed from Succoth and encamped H2583 at Etham, at the edge of the wilderness H4057 Exodus 13:20. During the time of the Judges, the men of Succoth in Palestine refused to provide loaves H3603 of bread to Gideon's weary army, leading to a severe judgment upon the city's elders (Judges 8:5, 8:16). The name also identifies a location in the plain H3603 of Jordan where metal castings for the temple were made 1 Kings 7:46.
Several related Hebrew words help clarify the meaning and context of Succoth:
- H5521 çukkâh (booth, tabernacle, tent): The singular root word for Çukkôwth. Its meaning of a temporary shelter or hut is the direct reason for the name of the place Jacob settled Genesis 33:17.
- H5265 nâçaʻ (to pull up, start on a journey): This verb is consistently linked with Succoth, describing Jacob's arrival there and the Israelites' critical departure from Egypt and subsequent travels (Exodus 12:37, Numbers 33:6).
- H2583 chânâh (to encamp): Describes the action of the Israelites at Succoth during the Exodus. They pitched their camp there, marking it as a temporary but crucial stopping point on their way to the wilderness H4057 (Exodus 13:20, Numbers 33:5).
The geographical and historical significance of H5523 is demonstrated in its key narrative roles:
- Marker of Exodus: As the first campsite after leaving Rameses, Succoth is a foundational landmark in Israel's history. It represents the first concrete step away from Egyptian bondage and toward freedom Exodus 12:37.
- Origin of Settlement: The name's origin is tied to Jacob providing shelter for his livestock by making booths H5521. This act marks it as a place of rest, provision, and the establishment of a home after years of travel Genesis 33:17.
- Site of Conflict: In the book of Judges, Succoth becomes a place of failed allegiance. The refusal of its elders to aid Gideon's army led to a harsh judgment, illustrating a moment of internal conflict and accountability within Israel Judges 8:16.
In summary, Çukkôwth H5523 is a name rooted in the simple concept of "booths" or shelters. It is used to designate critical locations in Israel's history, not as a theological concept, but as a geographical anchor for pivotal events. From being the site of Jacob's settlement Genesis 33:17 to serving as the first stop on the Exodus journey Exodus 12:37 and a city of conflict during the time of the Judges Judges 8:5, Succoth consistently marks a place of transition, whether it be personal, national, or judicial.
TRV