The Hebrew phrase ʻÊyn Shemesh, represented by H5885, means fountain of the sun. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term does not refer to a person or abstract concept, but to a specific geographical location in Palestine known as Enshemesh, likely a spring or fountain.
In the biblical narrative, H5885 is used exclusively in the book of Joshua to define the borders of tribal land allotments. In one instance, the border passed toward "the waters of Enshemesh," with its endpoints located at En-rogel Joshua 15:7. It is also mentioned as a point on the border that "went forth to Enshemesh" before continuing toward Geliloth, opposite the ascent of Adummim Joshua 18:17. In both cases, it serves as a critical landmark for establishing territorial boundaries.
Several related geographical terms help to establish the location and context of Enshemesh:
- H131 ʼĂdummîym: Defined as "a pass in Palestine," this location is mentioned in proximity to Enshemesh in both of its biblical appearances (Joshua 15:7, Joshua 18:17).
- H4608 maʻăleh: Meaning an "ascent" or "elevation," this word is used to describe the "going up to Adummim," a nearby topographical feature that helps situate Enshemesh Joshua 15:7.
- H5883 ʻÊyn Rôgêl: Meaning "fountain of a traveller," this was another well or spring that served as the endpoint of the border that passed by Enshemesh Joshua 15:7.
- H8444 tôwtsâʼâh: This term for a "boundary" or "outgoings" is used to describe the termination of the border after it passes Enshemesh Joshua 15:7.
The significance of H5885 is entirely geographical and administrative, central to the narrative of Israel's settlement in the promised land.
- Boundary Demarcation: The primary role of Enshemesh is to serve as a precise marker for dividing the land among the tribes, highlighting the importance of order and inheritance.
- Resource Landmark: The name "fountain of the sun" and the reference to "the waters of Enshemesh" Joshua 15:7 indicate its value as a water source, a vital resource for survival and settlement in the region.
- Geographic Context: Its consistent mention alongside other key locations like Adummim and En-rogel places it within a network of known landmarks used to map out the territory of Judah and Benjamin.
In summary, H5885 is a specific place name whose importance lies in its function within the biblical text. As the "fountain of the sun," it served as an unambiguous landmark in the Old Testament, crucial for the practical and divinely-ordained task of allotting territory to the tribes of Israel as recorded in the book of Joshua.
TRV