### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻEtsyôwn Geber**, represented by `{{H6100}}`, is the name of a specific location on the Red Sea. Its name is defined as "backbone-like of a man." The term appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses** of the Bible, identifying it as a significant geographical point in the history of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6100}}` is first mentioned as an encampment for the Israelites during their wilderness journey ([[Numbers 33:35-36]], [[Deuteronomy 2:8]]). Later, its strategic location on the **shore** `{{H8193}}` of the Red **sea** `{{H3220}}` in the land of Edom made it a vital port. King Solomon **made** `{{H6213}}` a **navy of ships** `{{H590}}` in **Eziongeber** [[1 Kings 9:26]]. This port also served the ambitions of later kings; Jehoshaphat **made** `{{H6213}}` **ships** `{{H591}}` there, though they were **broken** `{{H7665}}` at **Eziongeber** before they could sail to Ophir [[1 Kings 22:48]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and location of Ezion-geber:
* `{{H591}}` **ʼŏnîyâh** (a ship): This word is central to Ezion-geber's role as a port, as kings **made** `{{H6213}}` **ships** there for maritime trade and exploration ([[1 Kings 22:48]], [[2 Chronicles 20:36]]).
* `{{H5265}}` **nâçaʻ** (to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e. start on a journey): This root describes the Israelites' movements, as they **departed** `{{H5265}}` from one location and **removed** `{{H5265}}` from **Eziongaber** to continue their journey [[Numbers 33:35-36]].
* `{{H3220}}` **yâm** (a sea or large body of water): This word establishes the geographical context of **Eziongeber** as a seaside location, situated on the **shore** `{{H8193}}` of the Red **sea** `{{H3220}}` [[1 Kings 9:26]].
### Theological Significance
The historical significance of `{{H6100}}` is demonstrated in its distinct roles throughout Israel's history.
* **A Landmark in the Exodus:** As an encampment, **Eziongaber** was a key waypoint for the children of Israel as they journeyed through the wilderness, marking their passage near the land of Esau ([[Numbers 33:35]], [[Deuteronomy 2:8]]).
* **A Royal Naval Base:** Under King Solomon, the port became a center of maritime power and commerce. He established a **navy of ships** `{{H590}}` there, highlighting a period of national influence and economic expansion through sea trade [[1 Kings 9:26]].
* **A Site of Ambition and Failure:** The port also serves as a reminder of later endeavors. Jehoshaphat's fleet, which he **made** `{{H6213}}` in **Eziongeber** to sail for gold, was **broken** `{{H7665}}` before it could depart, illustrating a project of great ambition that ended in failure [[1 Kings 22:48]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6100}}` **ʻEtsyôwn Geber** is not merely a place name but a location of significant historical weight. It appears first as a stop on Israel's foundational journey out of Egypt. It later evolves into a strategic port, symbolizing both the peak of Solomon's commercial reach and the subsequent failures of royal ambition. Through its connection to wilderness wanderings and maritime trade, Ezion-geber provides a unique geographical anchor for key events in the biblical narrative.
TRV