### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsᵉbôʻîym**, represented by `{{H6650}}`, is the proper name for **Zeboim**, a place in Palestine. This term appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is strictly geographical, serving to identify a specific location within the biblical landscape.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H6650}}` functions as a geographical marker. In 1 Samuel, it identifies "the valley{H1516} of Zeboim{H6650} toward the wilderness{H4057}" as the destination for one of the companies of Philistine raiders [[1 Samuel 13:18]]. Later, in Nehemiah, Zeboim{H6650} is listed among the towns, including Hadid and Neballat, that were re-inhabited by the people of Israel after their return from exile [[Nehemiah 11:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The geographical context of Zeboim is clarified by several related words found in its primary mention:
* `{{H1516}}` **gay'** (valley): This term describes a gorge or a narrow valley. Zeboim is explicitly located in such a place, referred to as "the valley of Zeboim" [[1 Samuel 13:18]]. This word is also used to describe places of profound experience, such as the "valley of the shadow of death" [[Psalms 23:4]].
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border): Defined as a boundary or the territory enclosed, this word highlights Zeboim's position on a frontier. The narrative points to "the way of the border{H1366} that looketh to the valley of Zeboim" [[1 Samuel 13:18]]. God often speaks of setting and enlarging the **borders** of His people [[Exodus 34:24]].
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): The valley of Zeboim is situated "toward the wilderness{H4057}" [[1 Samuel 13:18]]. The **wilderness** is a significant landscape in Scripture, often representing a place of testing, preparation, and divine guidance ([[Deuteronomy 8:2]], [[Isaiah 40:3]]).
### Theological Significance
While not a major theological term itself, the context of `{{H6650}}` touches on important biblical themes regarding land and God's sovereignty.
* **Geographical Landmarks:** Zeboim serves as a fixed point in the biblical narrative, demonstrating the importance of physical places in the outworking of God's plans and promises. Its location is defined by a **border** `{{H1366}}`, a **valley** `{{H1516}}`, and the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}`.
* **Divine Sovereignty over Land:** The mention of Zeboim in relation to a **border** `{{H1366}}` connects to the broader theme of God establishing the bounds of His people's inheritance [[Exodus 23:31]] and their eventual return to "their own border" [[Jeremiah 31:17]].
* **Restoration and Faithfulness:** The inclusion of Zeboim in the list of resettled towns in Nehemiah [[Nehemiah 11:34]] stands as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to bring His children back to their land after a period of judgment and exile.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6650}}` is the name of a specific location, **Zeboim**. Though mentioned only twice, its context is rich with geographical significance. It is portrayed as a valley on a border near the wilderness, used as a landmark in military history and as evidence of Israel's restoration to their land. The word illustrates how even minor place names contribute to the texture of the biblical world and reflect larger themes of divine sovereignty and covenant faithfulness.
TRV