### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **ʻÊyn Rôgêl**, represented by `{{H5883}}`, means **fountain of a traveller**. It refers to a specific place near Jerusalem known as En-rogel. This location appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily functioning as a significant geographical landmark.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical history, `{{H5883}}` is noted in two key functions. First, it serves as a critical marker for defining the **border** `{{H1366}}` between tribal territories. It is mentioned as a boundary point for the tribe of **Judah** `{{H3063}}` [[Joshua 15:7]] and is also situated on the border near the valley of **Hinnom** `{{H2011}}` and the south **side** `{{H3802}}` of **Jebusi** `{{H2983}}` [[Joshua 18:16]]. Second, it was a site of clandestine political activity. **Jonathan** `{{H3083}}` and **Ahimaaz** `{{H290}}` used it as a secret meeting point to relay messages to **king** `{{H4428}}` **David** `{{H1732}}`, as they could not be **seen** `{{H7200}}` entering the **city** `{{H5892}}` [[2 Samuel 17:17]]. Later, **Adonijah** `{{H138}}` chose this location to **slew** `{{H2076}}` **sheep** `{{H6629}}` and **oxen** `{{H1241}}` in an attempt to seize the throne [[1 Kings 1:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the events surrounding En-rogel:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border): This word is central to En-rogel's identity as a landmark, appearing in the passages that establish it as a boundary for tribal lands ([[Joshua 15:7]], [[Joshua 18:16]]).
* `{{H138}}` **ʼĂdônîyâh** (Adonijah): He is the central figure in the narrative at En-rogel where he staged a sacrificial feast to rally support for his claim to the throne [[1 Kings 1:9]].
* `{{H3083}}` **Yᵉhôwnâthân** (Jonathan): He and Ahimaaz used En-rogel as a strategic location to remain hidden while serving as messengers for King David during a time of great danger [[2 Samuel 17:17]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5883}}` is seen through its role in key historical moments.
* **Landmark of Inheritance:** En-rogel's use as a **border** `{{H1366}}` marker in the book of Joshua grounds it in the physical fulfillment of God's promise of land to the tribes of Israel, particularly **Judah** `{{H3063}}` [[Joshua 15:7]].
* **Site of Political Intrigue:** The location serves as a backdrop for critical moments of conflict and loyalty in Israel's monarchy. It was a place of covert communication for those loyal to **David** `{{H1732}}` [[2 Samuel 17:17]] and the public stage for **Adonijah's** `{{H138}}` rebellion against the divinely chosen succession [[1 Kings 1:9]].
* **A Place of Consequence:** Events at En-rogel had direct implications for the kingdom. The successful passing of information from this spot helped preserve David's reign, while Adonijah's actions there initiated a crisis of succession.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5883}}`, En-rogel, is more than a geographical name. It is a landmark intertwined with the establishment of Israel's territorial inheritance and a pivotal setting for high-stakes political drama. From defining the **border** `{{H1366}}` of Judah to being the chosen spot for both a secret intelligence operation and a public grab for power, this "fountain of a traveller" was a place where the course of Israelite history was shaped.
TRV