### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsiddîym**, represented by `{{H6661}}`, is the name of a location in Palestine, Ziddim. Its base definition is derived from the plural of a word meaning "sides." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, identifying it as a specific, named place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of `{{H6661}}` is in the context of the allotment of land to the tribes of Israel. In [[Joshua 19:35]], **Ziddim** is listed among the "fenced cities" assigned to the tribe of Naphtali. The verse enumerates it alongside other fortified towns like Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, establishing its identity as a defended settlement within the promised land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The description of Ziddim as a "fenced city" connects it to other important Hebrew terms for fortified places:
* `{{H4013}}` **mibtsâr** (fenced, fortress): This word denotes a fortification, castle, or fortified city. Ziddim is explicitly identified as such [[Joshua 19:35]]. The term is also used figuratively, as when God promises to make his prophet a "defenced city" [[Jeremiah 1:18]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This is a general term for a city or town, a place guarded by a watch. Ziddim is one of these cities [[Joshua 19:35]]. The security of a city is a recurring theme, with scripture noting that unless the Lord keeps the **city**, the efforts of its watchmen are in vain [[Psalms 127:1]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6661}}` itself is a geographical name, its biblical context ties it to the theological concept of fortification and security.
* **Divine versus Human Strength:** The concept of a "fenced city" highlights the theme of trust. While places like Ziddim were physically fortified, the prophets warned against placing ultimate trust in them, as these cities could be judged and overthrown [[Jeremiah 5:17]].
* **God as a Fortress:** The physical defense of a "mibtsâr" `{{H4013}}` is used metaphorically to describe God's protection of his people and prophets. God himself can make a person into a "defenced city," providing a spiritual security that surpasses any physical wall [[Jeremiah 1:18]].
* **God's Sovereignty:** The security of any "ʻîyr" `{{H5892}}`, whether a small town like Ziddim or the holy city of Jerusalem, is ultimately dependent on God's protection and blessing [[Psalms 127:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6661}}` **Tsiddîym** is the proper name of a specific location, Ziddim, mentioned once in scripture. Its significance comes from its classification as one of the "fenced cities" [[Joshua 19:35]]. This context links it to the broader biblical themes of fortification, security, and the critical distinction between human-made defenses and ultimate reliance on God's divine protection and sovereignty.
TRV