### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsîyôwn**, represented by `{{H6726}}`, refers to **Zion**, a mountain of Jerusalem. It appears 154 times across 154 unique verses in the Bible. While initially referring to a physical location, often called the city of David [[1 Kings 8:1]], the term evolves to symbolize God's dwelling place, the assembly of His people, and the center of divine salvation and law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6726}}` is used in several key contexts. It is identified as a physical place, "the city of David" [[1 Kings 8:1]], from which the ark of the covenant was brought up. It also serves as the center of God's activity on earth, from which the LORD roars [[Joel 3:16]] and from which His law goes forth [[Isaiah 2:3]]. The term is often personified as the "daughter of Zion," representing the people of God who are called to rejoice in their coming King [[Zechariah 9:9]] and who will ultimately be comforted after periods of desolation [[Isaiah 51:3]]. Zion becomes a symbol of enduring stability for those who trust in the LORD [[Psalms 125:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the significance of Zion:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This word frequently describes Zion's physical and spiritual elevation as God's "holy mountain" [[Joel 2:1]], a place of stability and divine rule [[Psalms 125:1]].
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (a daughter): This term is often used to personify the inhabitants of Zion, as in the "daughter of Zion." It describes the collective community of God's people in both their suffering [[Lamentations 1:6]] and their joy [[Zechariah 9:9]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city): Zion is identified as "the holy city" [[Isaiah 52:1]] and the "city of the LORD" [[Isaiah 60:14]], establishing it as a divinely appointed center of life and worship.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6726}}` is immense, representing key aspects of God's relationship with His people.
* **God's Dwelling Place:** Zion is repeatedly described as the place where the LORD dwells [[Isaiah 8:18]] and reigns [[Isaiah 52:7]]. It is His "holy hill" [[Psalms 2:6]] where He has set His king.
* **The Foundation of Redemption:** God lays a cornerstone in Zion, a "sure foundation" for belief [[Isaiah 28:16]]. It is the destination for the Redeemer [[Isaiah 59:20]] and the place where salvation appears [[Isaiah 62:1]].
* **A Symbol of Hope and Security:** Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be removed [[Psalms 125:1]]. It is a place of deliverance [[Obadiah 1:17]] and the hope for God's people [[Joel 3:16]].
* **Promise of Future Restoration:** Prophecies declare that the Lord will comfort Zion [[Isaiah 51:3]], turn again its captivity [[Psalms 126:1]], and gather the redeemed there with "everlasting joy" [[Isaiah 51:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6726}}` **Tsîyôwn** signifies far more than a geographical location. It begins as a literal mountain, the "city of David" [[1 Kings 8:1]], but expands to become a central theological concept in Scripture. Zion represents the very presence of God among His people, the seat of His kingdom, and the source of divine law and salvation. It is a symbol of steadfastness for the faithful and the ultimate hope for the restoration and joy of the redeemed.
TRV