### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew place name **ʻÊyn Gedîy**, represented by `{{H5872}}`, is derived from words meaning **fountain of a kid**. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently referring to a specific location in Palestine known as En-gedi. This name identifies it as an oasis, a source of life in an otherwise arid region.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Engedi is primarily portrayed as a place of refuge and strategic importance. It is in the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` of Engedi where **David** `{{H1732}}` took shelter from **Saul** `{{H7586}}` [[1 Samuel 24:1]]. The text states that David **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` in the **strong holds** `{{H4679}}` at Engedi [[1 Samuel 23:29]]. Beyond its role as a sanctuary, it is listed as one of the **six** `{{H8337}}` **cities** `{{H5892}}` with their **villages** `{{H2691}}` allotted to Judah [[Joshua 15:62]]. It is also identified as **Hazazontamar** `{{H2688}}`, the place where a **great** `{{H7227}}` **multitude** `{{H1995}}` gathered to come against **Jehoshaphat** `{{H3092}}` [[2 Chronicles 20:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and significance of Engedi:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): This term describes the geographic setting where Engedi is located. It was in the **wilderness** of Engedi that David was hiding from Saul [[1 Samuel 24:1]].
* `{{H4679}}` **mᵉtsad** (strong holds): This word highlights Engedi's role as a natural fortress. David specifically sought refuge in the **strong holds** at Engedi [[1 Samuel 23:29]].
* `{{H3754}}` **kerem** (vineyards): This points to the fertility of the oasis, contrasting with the surrounding wilderness. The **beloved** `{{H1730}}` is compared to a **cluster** `{{H811}}` of camphire in the **vineyards** of Engedi [[Song of Solomon 1:14]].
* `{{H1728}}` **davvâg** (a fisherman): In a prophetic vision of restoration, **fishers** are pictured standing from Engedi to Eneglaim, a sign of abundant life [[Ezekiel 47:10]].
* `{{H2688}}` **Chatsᵉtsôwn Tâmâr** (Hazezon-tamar): This is an alternative name for Engedi, used when a great multitude gathered there before facing Jehoshaphat [[2 Chronicles 20:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5872}}` is seen in its varied roles within the biblical account:
* **A Divine Refuge:** For David, Engedi was a place of safety from Saul. He **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` in its **strong holds** `{{H4679}}`, providing a physical sanctuary during a time of great distress [[1 Samuel 23:29]].
* **An Oasis of Beauty:** The location is used poetically to symbolize beauty and desire. The **beloved** `{{H1730}}` is likened to a **cluster** `{{H811}}` of camphire from the **vineyards** `{{H3754}}` of Engedi, highlighting its precious and delightful nature [[Song of Solomon 1:14]].
* **A Landmark of Prophetic Abundance:** In Ezekiel's vision of the future, Engedi marks one end of a coastline teeming with life. **Fishers** `{{H1728}}` will stand there, spreading **nets** `{{H2764}}`, and the **fish** `{{H1710}}` will be as numerous as those in the **great** `{{H1419}}` **sea** `{{H3220}}` [[Ezekiel 47:10]].
* **A Point of Strategic Confrontation:** Engedi served as a muster point for the **great** `{{H7227}}` **multitude** `{{H1995}}` coming against **Jehoshaphat** `{{H3092}}`, making it the location from which a significant military and spiritual conflict was launched [[2 Chronicles 20:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5872}}` is more than a geographical marker. It functions as a symbol of both refuge and fertility. As **ʻÊyn Gedîy**, "fountain of a kid," it is an oasis providing safety for David, poetic beauty in the Song of Solomon, and a landmark of future abundance in Ezekiel's prophecy. Its inclusion in administrative lists and military narratives underscores its tangible importance in the history of Israel.
TRV