### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻôphel**, represented by `{{H6076}}`, carries a distinct dual meaning of both a **tumor** or **emerod**, and a **mound** or **fortress**. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used to describe both a severe physical affliction associated with divine judgment and a physical structure of defense, such as a fort or tower.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6076}}` is most frequently used to name the plague of **emerods** sent by the LORD. The Philistines are smitten with them as a punishment for capturing the Ark of the Covenant ([[1 Samuel 5:6]], [[1 Samuel 5:9]], [[1 Samuel 5:12]]), leading them to create golden **emerods** as a trespass offering [[1 Samuel 6:4]]. This same affliction is listed among the curses for disobedience to God [[Deuteronomy 28:27]]. In a different context, `{{H6076}}` refers to a fortified place. It is used as "**forts**" in a prophecy of desolation [[Isaiah 32:14]], as a specific location called "the **tower**" [[2 Kings 5:24]], and figuratively as "the **strong hold** of the daughter of Zion" [[Micah 4:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6076}}` as a fortified place:
* `{{H4026}}` **migdâl** (a tower): This word for tower is used in close association with `{{H6076}}` in [[Micah 4:8]], where the "tower of the flock" is also called "the strong hold" (ʻôphel).
* `{{H975}}` **bachan** (a watch-tower): In [[Isaiah 32:14]], **towers** (bachan) are mentioned in parallel with **forts** (ʻôphel) to describe defensive structures that will fall into ruin.
* `{{H4631}}` **mᵉʻârâh** (a cavern... den): This word illustrates the fate of the "forts" (ʻôphel) in [[Isaiah 32:14]], which are prophesied to become **dens** for wild animals, signifying complete abandonment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6076}}` is expressed through its contrasting applications.
* **Divine Judgment:** A majority of its occurrences describe **emerods** as a direct and painful consequence of divine wrath. It is the tool of judgment against the Philistines [[1 Samuel 5:6]] and a specified curse from the LORD for disobedience [[Deuteronomy 28:27]].
* **Prophetic Ruin:** The word is used to prophesize the downfall of human defenses. In [[Isaiah 32:14]], the **forts** (ʻôphel) become desolate, symbolizing the emptiness that follows when a city is forsaken.
* **Symbol of Hope:** Conversely, in [[Micah 4:8]], the **strong hold** (ʻôphel) becomes a powerful metaphor for Zion. It represents a place of security and is connected to the promise that the kingdom will be restored to Jerusalem.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6076}}` is a word of stark contrasts. It simultaneously represents a painful, humiliating affliction sent as divine punishment and a high, mighty fortress symbolizing defense and, metaphorically, the future hope of Zion. This single term powerfully conveys themes of both divine judgment on the unrighteous and the promised security for God's people.
TRV