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.
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.
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.
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.
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