### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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