### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÔphel**, represented by `{{H6077}}`, refers to a specific ridge in Jerusalem. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term designates a distinct, fortified location within the city, known for both its defensive structures and its inhabitants.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6077}}` is consistently portrayed as a key strategic area of Jerusalem. It was the focus of significant royal building projects, with King Jotham building extensively on its wall [[2 Chronicles 27:3]]. Later, King Manasseh further fortified the area, building an outer wall and raising it to a "very great height" [[2 Chronicles 33:14]]. Following the exile, during the rebuilding of Jerusalem, the wall of Ophel was again a site of major repairs [[Nehemiah 3:27]]. The location was also a residential quarter for the Nethinims, a group of temple servants ([[Nehemiah 3:26]], [[Nehemiah 11:21]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and purpose of Ophel:
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This word is used to describe the construction activities on Ophel, such as when Jotham "on the wall of Ophel he **built** much" [[2 Chronicles 27:3]]. It underscores Ophel's identity as a developed and fortified part of the city.
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall of protection): This term is central to the identity of Ophel. It is the **wall** of Ophel that was the subject of building by kings and repair by the Tekoites ([[2 Chronicles 27:3]], [[Nehemiah 3:27]]).
* `{{H4026}}` **migdâl** (a tower): The defenses of Ophel included at least one prominent **tower**. The Nethinims lived near "the **tower** that lieth out," and repairs were made on the wall opposite this structure ([[Nehemiah 3:26]], [[Nehemiah 3:27]]).
* `{{H5411}}` **Nâthîyn** (Nethinims): This term identifies the specific group of temple servants who were given this area as their residence. The scriptures explicitly state that the **Nethinims** dwelt in Ophel [[Nehemiah 11:21]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6077}}` is primarily historical and geographical, highlighting key aspects of Jerusalem's structure and society.
* **Strategic Fortification:** The repeated emphasis on building and repairing its wall `{{H2346}}` and raising it to a great height `{{H1361}}` demonstrates its importance to the defense of the city of David [[2 Chronicles 33:14]].
* **Royal Investment:** The direct involvement of kings like Jotham and Manasseh in building up Ophel shows it was considered a vital asset to the capital, worthy of significant royal resources ([[2 Chronicles 27:3]], [[2 Chronicles 33:14]]).
* **A Designated Quarter:** Ophel served as a specific dwelling place `{{H3427}}` for the Nethinims, the temple servants, connecting this geographical location to the daily operations and personnel of the Temple ([[Nehemiah 3:26]], [[Nehemiah 11:21]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6077}}` is more than just a place name. It represents a fortified, inhabited ridge integral to the security and social organization of ancient Jerusalem. Through its association with walls, towers, royal construction, and the Nethinims, the term provides a clear picture of a distinct and strategically important district within the holy city.
TRV