### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAlmôwn**, represented by `{{H5960}}`, identifies a specific place in Palestine. Its name is derived from a root meaning **hidden**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H5960}}` occurs within the detailed accounting of Levitical cities. In the list of cities allocated from the tribe of Benjamin to the priestly sons of Aaron, [[Joshua 21:18]] names **Almon** as one of the designated settlements. The text specifies it was given "with her suburbs," indicating it was a town that included surrounding pasture lands necessary for the Levites.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this single reference:
* `{{H6068}}` **ʻĂnâthôwth** (Anathoth): This city is mentioned directly beside **Almon** in the same allotment list [[Joshua 21:18]]. Anathoth was a prominent priestly city and is known as the hometown of the prophet Jeremiah [[Jeremiah 1:1]].
* `{{H4054}}` **migrâsh** (suburb): This term refers to the open pasture land surrounding a city. Both **Almon** and Anathoth are described as being given with their "suburbs," which was a critical part of the provision for the Levites according to God's command [[Numbers 35:2]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This is the general Hebrew word for a city or town. The verse identifies **Almon** as one of four "cities" given to the priests from Benjamin's territory, establishing its status as a formal settlement [[Joshua 21:18]].
### Theological Significance
While the word **ʻAlmôwn** itself has limited theological depth, its inclusion in scripture carries significance:
* **Covenant Fulfillment:** The mention of **Almon** is part of the meticulous record demonstrating the fulfillment of God's command to provide for the tribe of Levi, who were given cities to dwell in rather than a large tribal territory [[Numbers 35:2]].
* **Provision for the Priesthood:** As one of the cities given specifically to the sons of Aaron, **Almon** represents God's direct provision for the priests who ministered before the Lord on behalf of Israel [[Joshua 21:18]].
* **A Record of Inheritance:** Its presence in the text serves as a historical and legal marker, documenting the specific inheritances granted to the priestly families within the larger nation of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5960}}` **ʻAlmôwn** is a precise geographical term rather than a broad theological concept. Its importance is found in its context. The single mention of this place name in the Bible serves as a small but concrete piece of evidence, illustrating God's faithfulness to His covenant promises to provide for and sustain the Aaronic priesthood within the land of Israel.
TRV