### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêmeq**, represented by `{{H6010}}`, refers to a **vale** or **valley**, specifically a broad depression. It appears **69 times** across **64 unique verses**, often as part of a proper name for a significant geographical location. Its meaning is derived from a root suggesting depth, distinguishing it from narrower gorges or ravines.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6010}}` sets the stage for pivotal events. It is used to identify the location of patriarchal life, as when Joseph is sent from the **vale** of Hebron [[Genesis 37:14]]. Valleys frequently serve as battlegrounds, such as the **valley** of Elah where David fought Goliath [[1 Samuel 17:2]] and the **valley** of Rephaim where the Philistines encamped [[2 Samuel 5:18]]. These locations were often sites of military vulnerability, where inhabitants with iron chariots held an advantage [[Judges 1:19]]. Prophetic literature also uses the term symbolically, as in the **valley** of Jehoshaphat, designated as a place of divine judgment [[Joel 3:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a richer understanding of the biblical landscape:
* `{{H1516}}` **gay'** (valley): This term describes a gorge with lofty sides, suggesting a narrower passage than an ʻêmeq. It is used in reference to the **valley** of the son of Hinnom, which lies near the **valley** of the giants [[Joshua 15:8]].
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (brook, stream, valley): This word often refers to a valley defined by a winter torrent or stream. It appears in proximity to ʻêmeq in descriptions of boundaries, such as near the **valley** of Achor and the **brook** of Kidron [[Jeremiah 31:40]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): As the natural contrast to a valley, mountains are frequently mentioned alongside ʻêmeq. This is seen when people flee from a **vale** to the **mountain** [[Genesis 14:10]] and in the declaration that the LORD is God of the valleys as well as the **hills** [[1 Kings 20:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6010}}` is demonstrated through its use in contexts of divine action and purpose.
* **Place of Judgment:** The **valley** of Jehoshaphat is prophesied as the location where the LORD will gather and judge all nations ([[Joel 3:2]], [[Joel 3:12]]). It is also called the **valley** of decision, where the day of the LORD is near [[Joel 3:14]].
* **Arena of Divine Power:** God's sovereignty is shown not to be limited by geography; He is God of the **valleys** just as He is God of the hills [[1 Kings 20:28]]. His power is such that **valleys** shall be cleft like wax before the fire [[Micah 1:4]] at His presence.
* **Symbol of Transformation:** A place of trouble can be transformed into a site of promise. The **valley** of Achor, initially a place of judgment [[Joshua 7:26]], is later promised as a door of hope [[Hosea 2:15]] and a resting place for herds [[Isaiah 65:10]]. Similarly, the **valley** of Baca becomes a well for those passing through [[Psalms 84:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6010}}` is far more than a simple geographical descriptor. While it grounds key historical events in real locations like the **vale** of Siddim [[Genesis 14:3]] and the **valley** of Jezreel [[Judges 6:33]], it also carries immense symbolic weight. It serves as a theater for human conflict, divine judgment, and profound spiritual transformation, illustrating how the physical landscape of the Bible is deeply intertwined with the story of God and His people.
TRV