### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çillâʼ**, represented by `{{H5538}}`, identifies a specific place in Jerusalem known as **Silla**. Derived from a root meaning an embankment, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance is therefore tied exclusively to a single, specific event recorded in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5538}}` is to mark the location of a royal assassination. In [[2 Kings 12:20]], the servants of King Joash conspired against him and killed him. The text specifies the event took place "in the house of Millo, which goeth down to **Silla**". This verse forever links the name **Silla** with this act of treason against the king.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the context of [[2 Kings 12:20]] help define the event that occurred at Silla:
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): The individuals who carried out the act are identified as the king's own **servants**, highlighting the betrayal. The term is also used for those who serve the LORD [[Isaiah 42:1]].
* `{{H6965}}` **qûwm** (to rise): This word describes the servants' action to initiate their conspiracy. While here it signifies rebellion, it is also used for God's counsel which will stand or **rise** in authority [[Proverbs 19:21]].
* `{{H7195}}` **qesher** (conspiracy): This term defines the "unlawful alliance" or **conspiracy** formed against Joash. Scripture warns against such confederacies and uses the word to describe treason ([[Isaiah 8:12]], [[2 Kings 11:14]]).
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike, slay): This verb details the violent outcome of the conspiracy. The word for **slay** or smite is used elsewhere in significant prophetic contexts, such as the smiting of the shepherd [[Zechariah 13:7]] or the promised Messiah being "smitten of God" [[Isaiah 53:4]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5538}}` is entirely historical and locational, marking a moment of great treachery. The event at **Silla** illustrates several important themes:
* **Betrayal and Conspiracy:** The use of **qesher** `{{H7195}}` firmly places the event within the biblical theme of treason. The conspiracy by Joash's own **servants** `{{H5650}}` is a stark example of broken loyalty.
* **The Act of Rebellion:** The servants **arose** (**qûwm**, `{{H6965}}`) and **slew** (**nâkâh**, `{{H5221}}`) their king. This act of rising against authority stands in contrast to the way God's counsel is said to stand (**qûwm**) and the way He promises to **rise** against the enemies of His people [[Isaiah 54:17]].
* **A Place of Infamy:** While the base definition is simply an "embankment," **Silla** is remembered in scripture for one reason: it was the endpoint of a path leading to regicide.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5538}}` **Çillâʼ** is not a word with deep theological meaning on its own, but rather a geographical name given immense weight by its context. Mentioned only once, it serves as a permanent biblical landmark for the conspiracy and murder of King Joash, as recorded in [[2 Kings 12:20]]. The associated words—**servant**, **rise**, **conspiracy**, and **slay**—frame the narrative and connect this singular event to broader scriptural themes of loyalty, rebellion, and consequence.
TRV