### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAzzâh**, represented by `{{H5804}}`, is the name for **Azzah**, a place in Palestine commonly known as **Gaza**. The name is derived from a feminine word meaning **strong**. It appears **21 times** across **20 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently identifying it as a significant city, particularly one belonging to the Philistines.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5804}}` serves as a key geographical and political marker. It is established early as a boundary for the territory of the Canaanites [[Genesis 10:19]]. It is later identified as a Philistine city that was smitten by Joshua [[Joshua 10:41]] and taken by Judah [[Judges 1:18]]. Despite this, it remained a persistent stronghold for Israel's enemies; it was one of the few places where the Anakims `{{H6062}}` remained [[Joshua 11:22]]. The city is notable in the story of Samson `{{H8123}}`, who went there and was later imprisoned, bound in brass fetters, and put to work in the prison house ([[Judges 16:1]], [[Judges 16:21]]). It is also listed as part of the vast territory over which King Solomon had dominion [[1 Kings 4:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words and places are closely associated with `{{H5804}}` Gaza:
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (Philistine): This term for an **inhabitant of Pelesheth** is fundamentally linked to Gaza, which is consistently described as a chief city of the Philistines ([[Jeremiah 25:20]], [[2 Kings 18:8]]).
* `{{H831}}` **ʼAshqᵉlôwn** (Ashkelon): A neighboring Philistine city, **Ashkelon** is frequently mentioned alongside Gaza in prophecies of judgment and sorrow ([[Jeremiah 47:5]], [[Zephaniah 2:4]], [[Zechariah 9:5]]).
* `{{H6138}}` **ʻEqrôwn** (Ekron): Defined as **eradication**, Ekron is another of the five major Philistine cities often listed with Gaza ([[1 Samuel 6:17]], [[Jeremiah 25:20]]).
* `{{H795}}` **ʼAshdôwd** (Ashdod): Meaning **ravager**, Ashdod is also a primary Philistine city where the Anakim remained along with those in Gaza and Gath [[Joshua 11:22]].
* `{{H1661}}` **Gath** (Gath): Another city where the Anakim remained, **Gath** is listed with Gaza as sending a trespass offering to the LORD [[1 Samuel 6:17]].
* `{{H123}}` **ʼĔdôm** (Edom): The region of **Edom** is connected to Gaza's fate; the prophet Amos declares judgment upon Gaza for carrying away captives to deliver them up to Edom [[Amos 1:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5804}}` is primarily seen through prophecies of divine judgment. It stands as a symbol of a powerful enemy stronghold that faces God's wrath.
* **Judgment for Transgression:** Gaza is explicitly condemned for its specific sin of carrying away an entire community into captivity and delivering them to Edom `{{H123}}` [[Amos 1:6]]. As a consequence, the LORD `{{H3068}}` promises to send a fire `{{H784}}` on its wall `{{H2346}}` to devour its palaces `{{H759}}` [[Amos 1:7]].
* **Prophetic Downfall:** Multiple prophets foretell its demise. Jeremiah speaks of **baldness** `{{H7144}}` coming upon Gaza [[Jeremiah 47:5]]. Zephaniah declares that Gaza shall be **forsaken** `{{H5800}}` and Ekron shall be **rooted up** `{{H6131}}` [[Zephaniah 2:4]]. Zechariah predicts that the **king** `{{H4428}}` shall **perish** `{{H6}}` from Gaza and the city will be filled with sorrow [[Zechariah 9:5]].
* **A Persistent Enemy:** Even after being conquered by Judah [[Judges 1:18]], Gaza remains a symbol of opposition, housing the Anakim [[Joshua 11:22]] and the Philistines. The story of Samson's capture and imprisonment there highlights it as a place of conflict and trial for Israel's judges [[Judges 16:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5804}}` is more than just a location on a map. As Gaza, it represents a "strong" and defiant city, central to the Philistine identity and their opposition to Israel. While it marks a geographical border and is the setting for significant historical events like those involving Samson, its primary role in scripture is as a recipient of divine judgment. The prophecies against Gaza serve as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty over all nations and His condemnation of their transgressions.
TRV