the same as עֻמָּה; association; Ummah, a place in Palestine; Ummah.
Transliteration:ʻUmmâh
Pronunciation:oom-maw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma עֻמָּה (ʻUmmâh), Strong's number `{{H5981}}`, functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location. Its base definition indicates a connection to "association" or "being alongside," likely deriving from a root or similar form that conveys the idea of proximity or togetherness. While the word itself is a place name, its underlying etymological sense suggests a place of gathering or dwelling in close proximity. Unlike verbs or adjectives, ʻUmmâh does not possess a broad semantic range but rather points to a singular, identifiable entity within the biblical landscape.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term עֻמָּה (ʻUmmâh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Joshua 19:30]]. In this sole occurrence, Ummah is enumerated among the towns allotted to the tribe of Asher as part of their tribal inheritance in the Promised Land. The verse reads: "Ummah also, and Aphek, and Rehob: twenty and two cities with their villages." Its placement within this detailed list of towns—which includes other significant locations like Aphek—underscores its role as a geographical marker defining the boundaries and settled areas within Asher's territory. The meticulous listing of towns in Joshua chapters 15-19 serves to document the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel regarding the land, providing a concrete and verifiable record of their inheritance. Ummah, as one of these named places, contributes to the precise delineation of tribal lands, affirming the orderly distribution and divine provision.
### Related Words & Concepts
The underlying concept of "association" or "being alongside," which is hinted at in the base definition of עֻמָּה (ʻUmmâh), connects it to a broader family of Hebrew words related to community, proximity, and dwelling together. While ʻUmmâh itself is a proper noun, its root might be related to terms like עִם (ʻim), meaning "with" or "alongside," or עַם (ʻam), meaning "people" or "nation" `{{H5971}}`. These connections, though indirect for a place name, subtly reinforce the idea of a populated place where people associate. More directly, ʻUmmâh is related to other place names listed in the tribal allotments of Joshua, such as those in the territory of Asher, illustrating the comprehensive nature of the land distribution. Concepts like "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah `{{H5159}}`), "boundary" (גְּבוּל, gevul `{{H1366}}`), and "tribe" (שֵׁבֶט, shevet `{{H7626}}`) are intrinsically linked to the context in which ʻUmmâh appears.
### Theological Significance
As a geographical marker, the theological significance of עֻמָּה (ʻUmmâh) is primarily indirect but profound. Its inclusion in the meticulous record of tribal inheritances in the Book of Joshua testifies to the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants concerning the land (e.g., [[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18-21]]). The precise naming of towns like Ummah demonstrates the divine orchestrator's attention to detail and the historical veracity of the biblical narrative. It underscores the reality of Israel's possession of the land as a direct act of God's provision and a manifestation of His sovereignty over nations and territories. While Ummah itself does not carry a specific theological narrative or prophetic significance, its presence within the divinely appointed boundaries of Asher's inheritance affirms the orderly and complete nature of God's work in establishing His people in their promised dwelling place.
### Summary
עֻמָּה (ʻUmmâh), Strong's number `{{H5981}}`, is a Hebrew proper noun designating a specific town within the territory allotted to the tribe of Asher. Appearing only once in [[Joshua 19:30]], its primary function is to serve as a geographical marker in the detailed record of Israel's land inheritance. While its etymological root may suggest "association" or "being alongside," its biblical usage is strictly as a place name. The theological significance of Ummah lies not in any inherent meaning of the name itself, but in its contribution to the larger narrative of God's faithfulness. Its inclusion in the tribal allotments underscores the precision and fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the land of Canaan, demonstrating His meticulous provision and the historical reality of the divine distribution of territory to the tribes of Israel.
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