### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pirʻâthôwn** `{{H6552}}` refers to **Pirathon**, a place in Palestine. Its name is derived from a word meaning "chieftaincy." This specific location is mentioned only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, identifying it as a significant landmark in the history of one of Israel's judges.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H6552}}` is in the Book of Judges, where it marks a precise geographical location. The verse states that Abdon the Pirathonite was **buried** `{{H6912}}` in **Pirathon** in the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Ephraim** `{{H669}}`, within the **mount** `{{H2022}}` of the Amalekites `{{H6003}}` [[Judges 12:15]]. This grounds the conclusion of the judge Abdon's life story in a specific, named place.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of Pirathon's single biblical mention:
* `{{H5658}}` **ʻAbdôwn** (Abdon): This name, meaning "servitude," refers to the judge of Israel who was buried in Pirathon. He is identified as a Pirathonite and a judge of Israel [[Judges 12:13]].
* `{{H669}}` **ʼEphrayim** (Ephraim): Meaning "double fruit," this refers to the tribal territory where Pirathon was located, connecting the place to the tribe descended from Joseph's son [[Judges 12:15]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mount): Defined as a **mountain or range of hills**, this word further specifies Pirathon's location as being "in the **mount** of the Amalekites" [[Judges 12:15]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6552}}` is tied directly to its geographical and historical context.
* **Site of Chieftaincy:** The name **Pirathon** is linked to the concept of "chieftaincy," fittingly serving as the home and final resting place of **Abdon** `{{H5658}}`, who judged Israel [[Judges 12:13]].
* **Geographical Anchor:** The mention of **Pirathon** provides a concrete landmark within the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Ephraim** `{{H669}}`, adding historical and geographical specificity to the biblical record [[Judges 12:15]].
* **Place of Burial:** In its only scriptural context, **Pirathon** is defined as a place to **bury** `{{H6912}}` the dead, symbolizing the conclusion of a leader's life and service to his people [[Judges 12:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **Pirʻâthôwn** `{{H6552}}` is not a common term but a highly specific geographical marker. Its sole appearance establishes **Pirathon** as the burial site of the judge Abdon, firmly placing his story within the territory of **Ephraim** `{{H669}}`. The name's association with "chieftaincy" aligns with its role in the narrative of an Israelite leader, demonstrating how even a single-use place name can provide important context and depth to the biblical account.
TRV