probably a patronymic from an unused name derived from אָמַר in the sense of publicity, i.e. prominence; thus, a mountaineer; an Emorite, one of the Canaanitish tribes; Amorite.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĔmôrîy**, represented by `{{H567}}`, designates the **Amorite** people, described as one of the Canaanitish tribes. The name itself may derive from a word suggesting prominence, fitting their description as **mountaineers**. Appearing **87 times** across **86 unique verses**, the Amorites are a significant group in the Old Testament narrative, primarily as inhabitants of the land promised to Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **Amorites** `{{H567}}` are consistently listed among the peoples occupying the land of Canaan before the Israelite conquest. God promises to deliver His people into a land inhabited by tribes including the **Amorites** ([[Exodus 3:8]], [[Exodus 13:5]]). They are frequently depicted as a formidable force, with notable kings like Sihon and Og, whose defeat is a landmark event in Israel's history ([[Numbers 21:34]], [[Deuteronomy 3:8]]). Their territory is described as being in the mountains [[Numbers 13:29]] and was a primary target for dispossession by Israel under God's command [[Amos 2:10]]. The wickedness of the **Amorites** became a benchmark for sin, with their iniquity described as "full" [[Genesis 15:16]] and their abominations serving as a warning to Israel ([[1 Kings 21:26]], [[2 Kings 21:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role of the Amorites in scripture:
* `{{H3669}}` **Kᵉnaʻanîy** (Canaanite): This term refers to an inhabitant of Kenaan and is frequently used in lists alongside **ʼĔmôrîy** to describe the collective peoples of the promised land whom Israel was to drive out [[Exodus 34:11]].
* `{{H5511}}` **Çîychôwn** (Sihon): This is the name of a prominent **Amoritish king**. The defeat of **Sihon** king of the **Amorites** `{{H567}}` is a recurring testimony to God's power on behalf of Israel ([[Numbers 21:21]], [[Psalms 135:11]]).
* `{{H5747}}` **ʻÔwg** (Og): Along with Sihon, **Og** was another powerful king whose lands were taken by Israel. The victory over these **two** kings of the **Amorites** `{{H567}}` was a sign of God's favor and fulfillment of His promise [[Joshua 2:10]].
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash** (to possess, to drive out): This verb is central to the narrative of conquest. God repeatedly promises that Israel will **possess** the land of the **Amorite** `{{H567}}` [[Amos 2:10]] and that He will **drive out** the inhabitants before them [[Joshua 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative role of `{{H567}}` is significant in understanding God's relationship with Israel.
* **Fulfillment of Covenant:** The conquest of the **Amorites** represents a direct fulfillment of God's covenant promise to give the land to the descendants of Abraham. The Lord gave their land into Israel's hand [[Joshua 24:8]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The dispossession of the **Amorites** is not merely a human military campaign but an act of divine judgment. God is shown destroying the **Amorite** because their iniquity was complete ([[Genesis 15:16]], [[Amos 2:9]]).
* **A Standard for Righteousness and Sin:** The **Amorites** serve as a moral contrast for Israel. Israel is warned not to fear their gods [[Judges 6:10]] or adopt their abominable practices [[1 Kings 21:26]]. In a stark rebuke, Jerusalem is told "thy father was an **Amorite**" to highlight its spiritual apostasy [[Ezekiel 16:3]].
* **Demonstration of God's Power:** The defeat of the powerful **Amorite** kings, Sihon and Og, becomes a foundational story of God's power to save. It is recounted to remind future generations that God fights for His people ([[Deuteronomy 31:4]], [[Joshua 2:10]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H567}}` **ʼĔmôrîy** identifies a key people group whose story is interwoven with Israel's origins as a nation. The term signifies more than an ethnic identity; it represents the inhabitants of the promised land who were dispossessed due to their wickedness, making way for God's covenant people. The interactions between Israel and the **Amorites** illustrate core theological themes of divine judgment, covenant faithfulness, and God's power to overcome all opposition for His chosen people.
TRV