### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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