The Hebrew phrase ʻÎyr hat-Tᵉmârîym, represented by H5899, is a descriptive name for a place in Palestine, meaning city of the palmtrees. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The name is a compound of the words for 'city' H5892 and the plural of 'palm tree' H8558.
In the biblical narrative, H5899 is used to pinpoint a specific geographical location. Two verses explicitly identify this place as Jericho. When Moses views the promised land, the plain of the valley of Jericho is called "the city of palm trees" Deuteronomy 34:3. Similarly, when captives from Judah were cared for and released, they were brought to "Jericho, the city of palm trees" 2 Chronicles 28:15. The term also appears independently, marking the location that Israel's enemies possessed Judges 3:13 and the city from which the Kenites departed to dwell with the children of Judah Judges 1:16.
Several related words provide context for the meaning of this place name:
- H5892 ʻîyr (a city): This is the foundational term in the phrase, denoting an established settlement. The Bible refers to a "defenced city" Jeremiah 1:18 and the importance of the LORD keeping the city Psalms 127:1.
- H8558 tâmâr (a palm tree): This word supplies the descriptive element. The palm tree is a symbol of flourishing and is used to describe the righteous Psalms 92:12. Palm branches were also used in celebration during the feasts of the LORD Leviticus 23:40.
- H3405 Yᵉrîychôw (Jericho): This is the proper name for the location identified as the "city of palm trees." It was a significant city in Israel's history, whose fall was a pivotal event Joshua 6:2 and whose rebuilding was accompanied by a curse Joshua 6:26.
The significance of H5899 is primarily geographical and symbolic within the narrative.
- A Fertile Landmark: Describing a location as the "city of palm trees" distinguishes it as a fertile, life-sustaining place, likely in contrast to the surrounding wilderness areas mentioned in contexts like Judges 1:16.
- A Site of Conquest and Possession: The city was strategically important and a target for conquest. Its possession by the children of Ammon and Amalek marked a period of judgment against Israel Judges 3:13.
- A Place of Mercy: The city serves as the backdrop for an act of kindness, where captives were fed, clothed, and returned to their brethren, highlighting it as a place of refuge and restoration 2 Chronicles 28:15.
In summary, ʻÎyr hat-Tᵉmârîym H5899 is a descriptive title for Jericho, one of the most significant cities in the Old Testament. More than a simple name, it paints a picture of a verdant and strategic location. Its usage in Scripture marks it as a key landmark in the promise of the land, a site of historical conflict, and a place of compassionate refuge.
TRV