### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **Paç Dammîym**, identified as `{{H6450}}`, designates a specific location in Palestine known as **Pas-dammim**. The name itself is defined as the "palm (i.e. dell) of bloodshed." This place name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical reference to `{{H6450}}` places it at the scene of a military confrontation. In this event, David `{{H1732}}` is at **Pas-dammim** where the Philistines `{{H6430}}` had gathered `{{H622}}` for battle `{{H4421}}`. The location is described as a parcel `{{H2513}}` of ground `{{H7704}}`, and the narrative notes that the people `{{H5971}}` fled `{{H5127}}` from the Philistines [[1 Chronicles 11:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help to define the setting:
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (battle): This word refers to an engagement or warfare and is the reason the Philistines gathered at this location. It is used in contexts where God's sovereignty over conflict is asserted, as in "the **battle** is not yours, but God's" [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (Philistine): This term identifies the inhabitants of Pelesheth, who were the antagonists in this scene. The Philistines are frequent adversaries in the narrative of David [[1 Samuel 17:45]].
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flee): This primitive root means to flit or escape. It describes the reaction of the people at Pas-dammim, who **fled** before the Philistines [[1 Chronicles 11:13]]. The word can describe both the flight of the wicked [[Proverbs 28:1]] and the eventual escape from sorrow [[Isaiah 51:11]].
* `{{H2513}}` **chelqâh** (parcel): Meaning an allotment, piece of land, or ground, this word specifies the battlefield. Beyond a literal plot of land, it can also figuratively describe flattery or smooth things [[Psalms 12:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6450}}` is tied directly to the event that occurs there.
* **A Site of Conflict:** The name itself, "palm of bloodshed," and its biblical context mark **Pas-dammim** as a place of military struggle. It highlights the recurring theme of battles `{{H4421}}` between Israel and its enemies, such as the Philistines `{{H6430}}` [[1 Chronicles 11:13]].
* **Human Weakness and Divine Presence:** The narrative notes that the people `{{H5971}}` fled `{{H5127}}` in the face of the enemy [[1 Chronicles 11:13]]. This moment of human fear is set against the presence of David `{{H1732}}`, God's chosen leader, establishing a contrast between human weakness and divinely appointed leadership in times of crisis.
* **Contested Ground:** The battle occurs over a "parcel `{{H2513}}` of ground `{{H7704}}`" [[1 Chronicles 11:13]]. This detail underscores the importance of the land in biblical narratives, where territory is often the stage for confrontations that determine the security and sovereignty of God's people.
### Summary
In summary, **Paç Dammîym** `{{H6450}}` is a specific geographical location whose name signifies conflict. Its singular appearance in scripture [[1 Chronicles 11:13]] serves to pinpoint a key moment of confrontation between David's forces and the Philistines. The event at **Pas-dammim** illustrates themes of warfare, the challenge of facing enemies, and the context of struggle over the land.
TRV