### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻăbârâh**, represented by `{{H5679}}`, denotes a **crossing-place**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, highlighting its specific application in contexts of transit and location. Based on its usage, the term can refer to a **ferry** used for transport or a **plain** that serves as a passageway or ford.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5679}}` is used in two specific ways within the narrative of 2 Samuel. It describes a geographical location, as when David is advised not to stay in the **plains** of the wilderness but to pass over quickly [[2 Samuel 17:16]]. Similarly, it is the location where Hushai says he will wait for word from David [[2 Samuel 15:28]]. The term is also used to identify a mode of transport, specifically "a **ferry boat**" which was used to carry King David's household across the Jordan [[2 Samuel 19:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5679}}` is rooted in the action of crossing, as shown by several related words:
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): This is the primitive root from which `{{H5679}}` is derived. It signifies any kind of transition, from physically passing through waters [[Isaiah 43:2]] to God metaphorically passing by transgressions [[Micah 7:18]]. It is used alongside `{{H5679}}` when the ferry boat "went **over**" [[2 Samuel 19:18]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): This verb appears in the context of the ferry boat, which was used to **do** what the king thought good [[2 Samuel 19:18]]. It speaks to action and accomplishment, from God making the heavens [[Jeremiah 32:17]] to man being required to **do** justly [[Micah 6:8]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This word is used to command a message be **sent** concerning the plains `{{H5679}}`, urging David's crossing [[2 Samuel 17:16]]. The word is often used for divine commissioning, as when God **sent** His word to heal [[Psalms 107:20]] or put forth His hand to empower a prophet [[Jeremiah 1:9]].
* `{{H935}}` **bôwʼ** (to go or come): This verb describes the action of a message that will **come** to the plain `{{H5679}}` where someone is waiting [[2 Samuel 15:28]]. It can describe a physical arrival, like light **come** to Zion [[Isaiah 60:1]], or a promised event that will surely **come** [[Habakkuk 2:3]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5679}}` is used in specific historical contexts, its root concept of "crossing over" carries significant theological weight, illustrated by its related verb `{{H5674}}` ʻâbar.
* **Passage as Deliverance:** The act of crossing is frequently linked to salvation and refuge. The ferry boat `{{H5679}}` facilitates the safe passage of the king's household [[2 Samuel 19:18]]. This echoes the promise that God's people will **pass through** the waters unharmed [[Isaiah 43:2]] and find refuge until calamities are **overpast** [[Psalms 57:1]].
* **Divine Pardon:** The idea of "passing over" is applied to God's mercy. God **passeth by** transgression, which is a mark of His unique power to pardon iniquity [[Micah 7:18]]. This act of crossing over sin is a foundation of His gracious character.
* **Crossing Boundaries:** The verb to cross, **ʻâbar** `{{H5674}}`, is used to establish spiritual boundaries. For instance, the unclean are forbidden to **pass over** the "way of holiness" [[Isaiah 35:8]], signifying a separation between the sacred and profane.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5679}}` is more than just a word for a ferry or a plain. It is a term deeply connected to the foundational biblical concept of transition. Through its literal uses and its strong connection to the root verb **ʻâbar** `{{H5674}}`, it defines physical passage, divine deliverance, and the merciful act of God passing over transgression. It illustrates how a simple term for a **crossing-place** can point to the profound ways God moves His people from danger to safety and from judgment to grace.
TRV