### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻemdâh**, represented by `{{H5979}}`, denotes a **station, i.e. domicile; standing**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular usage points to a specific and focused meaning within its prophetic context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5979}}` is in the prophetic book of Micah. Amid a series of pronouncements against the cities of Judah, the verse states that the mourning of Bethezel means "he shall receive of you his **standing**" [[Micah 1:11]]. This use suggests the establishment of a position or station as a consequence of divine judgment, where one entity's loss becomes another's foothold or established place.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in [[Micah 1:11]] help clarify the meaning of a "standing" or station:
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (inhabitant): Defined as to sit down or dwell, this word establishes the theme of habitation and permanence. It appears twice in the verse that contains `{{H5979}}` [[Micah 1:11]] and is used elsewhere to describe dwelling in the house of the LORD [[Psalms 27:4]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (came not forth): Meaning to go out or proceed, this word stands in contrast to `{{H5979}}`. While Zaanan "came not forth," another entity receives a "standing," highlighting a theme of movement versus stability [[Micah 1:11]]. This word can describe both physical movement, like going out to battle [[2 Chronicles 20:17]], and divine action, like God's word going forth [[Isaiah 55:11]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (receive): Meaning to take or receive, this word describes the action of acquiring the "standing" [[Micah 1:11]]. It is often used to describe God taking a people for Himself [[Deuteronomy 4:34]] or the LORD taking away what He has given [[Job 1:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5979}}` is derived from its singular, impactful use in a prophecy of judgment.
* **Sovereignty in Habitation:** The context of [[Micah 1:11]] demonstrates God's absolute authority over the stations and dwellings of people. He commands one inhabitant to "Pass ye away" `{{H5674}}` while another receives a "standing," illustrating that security and place are gifts from God, which can also be removed.
* **Judgment and Consequence:** The establishment of this "standing" is a direct result of divine judgment. The inaction of one group ("came not forth" `{{H3318}}`) is directly linked to another group receiving its station, showing that one's position is tied to their response to God's commands and warnings.
* **The Transfer of Position:** The word `lâqach` `{{H3947}}`, "he shall receive," indicates an active transfer. The "standing" is not merely lost by one but taken by another. This concept echoes broader biblical themes where God takes a nation for Himself [[Deuteronomy 4:34]] or takes away what was previously given [[Job 1:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5979}}` **ʻemdâh** is a highly specific term for a **station** or **standing**. Though used only once, its placement in [[Micah 1:11]] provides a powerful illustration of divine judgment. It conveys the idea that a place of dwelling or a position of establishment is not guaranteed but is subject to God's sovereign will, capable of being transferred from one party to another as a direct consequence of their actions.
TRV