### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻĂzêqâh**, represented by `{{H5825}}`, is the proper name for **Azekah, a place in Palestine**. Its name is derived from a root meaning "tilled." Appearing **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, it identifies a specific town in the Shephelah region of Judah, notable for its role in key military events in Israel's history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Azekah `{{H5825}}` is first mentioned as a landmark during Joshua's conquest of Canaan. After God discomfited the Amorite kings at Gibeon, the Israelite army chased and smote them "to Azekah" [[Joshua 10:10]]. The divine intervention in this battle is underscored by the LORD casting down great hailstones upon the fleeing armies "unto Azekah" [[Joshua 10:11]]. Later, the Philistine army gathered for battle and "pitched between Shochoh and Azekah" before the famous confrontation between David and Goliath [[1 Samuel 17:1]]. Centuries later, Azekah was one of the last "defenced cities" in Judah, along with Lachish, to hold out against the invading army of the king of Babylon [[Jeremiah 34:7]]. It is also listed among the cities of Judah in Joshua's time [[Joshua 15:35]] and as a town resettled after the return from exile [[Nehemiah 11:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Azekah's significance in scripture:
* `{{H4013}}` **mibtsâr** (a fortification, castle, or fortified city; figuratively, a defender): This word establishes Azekah's strategic importance as a stronghold. It was counted among the "defenced cities" that remained during the final siege by Babylon [[Jeremiah 34:7]].
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to run after (usually with hostile intent...); chase... pursue): This verb describes the critical moment in Israel's history when they "chased" their enemies toward Azekah, marking a major victory during the conquest [[Joshua 10:10]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike... kill, make (slaughter), slaughter, slay... smite): This word is used to describe the military action of the Israelites, who "smote" the Amorite armies all the way to Azekah [[Joshua 10:10]].
* `{{H2583}}` **chânâh** (to pitch a tent; gen. to encamp (for abode or siege)): This term is used to describe the positioning of the Philistine army, who "pitched" their camp near Azekah before battle, highlighting the area's use as a military staging ground [[1 Samuel 17:1]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical and historical weight of `{{H5825}}` is significant in the biblical record.
* **A Landmark of Divine Warfare:** Azekah is immortalized as the location where God's power was displayed decisively. The hailstones that fell "unto Azekah" killed more of Israel's enemies than the sword, serving as a testament to God's direct role in fighting for His people [[Joshua 10:11]].
* **A Strategic Military Site:** From the conquest to the monarchy and the final days of Judah, Azekah was a location of military importance. It served as a boundary in a major pursuit [[Joshua 10:10]], a staging area for a Philistine invasion [[1 Samuel 17:1]], and a fortified city of last resort against Babylon [[Jeremiah 34:7]].
* **An Anchor of Judah's Inheritance:** Azekah is consistently identified as a city within the territory of Judah. Its inclusion in the city lists of the tribe [[Joshua 15:35]] and its resettlement by the children of Judah after the exile [[Nehemiah 11:30]] confirm its lasting place in the heritage and geography of the nation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5825}}` Azekah is far more than a geographical reference. It is a location woven into the fabric of Israel's history, representing divine deliverance, military strategy, and national identity. From a site of miraculous victory in the age of Joshua to a bastion of final resistance before the exile, Azekah stands as a silent witness to the triumphs and tribulations of the people of Judah.
TRV