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